Nigerian winger Philip Otele has signed with UAE’s Al Wahda FC, leaving Romanian club CFR Cluj for €3,5 million and will earn €1,5 million per year, Soccernet.NG reports.
The 25-year-old, celebrated as Nigeria’s best player in Romania, has agreed to a four-year contract that will keep him at Al Wahda until 2028.
Otele’s move to the UAE comes with a substantial financial package. He is set to earn €1,5 million annually, reflecting his rising profile in the football world. Al Wahda paid a transfer fee of €3.5 million to secure Otele’s services.
Expressing his excitement, Otele stated, “I am extremely happy and excited for the upcoming challenges and competitions with Al Wahda. I am proud to wear this badge and grateful for the warm welcome and confidence from the club’s leadership and management.”
This move marks a surprising turn in Otele’s career trajectory, as he was previously linked with a potential transfer to the English Premier League. Brighton & Hove Albion showed significant interest in the Nigerian star but ultimately missed out on signing him.
Otele’s impressive stint at CFR Cluj, where he scored 18 goals in 40 appearances, earned him joint-top scorer honors in the Romanian league. His outstanding performance also secured him a spot in the league’s Team of the Season.
