Former Super Eagles forward, Brown Ideye is on the verge of joining Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) club, Enyimba.
The 36-year-old, who has been without a club since leaving Kuwaiti side, Al Yarmouk in 2022, is set for a return to Nigeria’s domestic league. This move follows a trend set by former international teammates Ahmed Musa and Abdullahi Shehu, who currently play for Kano Pillars.
Enyimba coach Yemi Olanrewaju played a pivotal role in convincing Ideye to make the move. Olanrewaju is confident that the former Dynamo Kyiv striker can address the club’s persistent goal scoring challenges.
The move also reportedly has the backing of Enyimba chairman and Nigerian football legend, Nwankwo Kanu. Kanu, who played alongside Ideye at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, is said to have influenced the transfer through his strong relationship with the striker.
Ideye was close to joining Rivers United in October, but the deal fell apart due to contractual disagreements. However, this time, sources indicate the agreement is on track, with Ideye eager for the new challenge.
If finalized, this will mark Ideye’s return to Nigerian football 17 years after he last played domestically. He was part of the Ocean Boys squad that clinched the NPFL title in 2006 before embarking on a successful international career, which included winning the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Enyimba face a critical week with two important fixtures. They will host Sunshine Stars in a rescheduled league match on Wednesday in Aba before traveling to Maputo, Mozambique, for a CAF Confederation Cup group stage game against Black Bulls.
Wins in both matches could significantly improve the fortunes of the reigning NPFL champions, who are winless in their last six games across all competitions. Ideye is expected to officially join the team on a short-term deal after these matches.
