Sparta Prague sign Nigerian defender Emmanuel Uchenna in record deal
Sparta Prague have made a big move in the transfer market by signing 21-year-old Nigerian defender Emmanuel Uchenna from Baník Ostrava in a record deal.
This is the first signing for Sparta Prague in the winter transfer window, with Uchenna agreeing to a multi-year contract.
Uchenna, who started his career at Nigeria’s Ikorodu City FC, joined Baník Ostrava after loan spells at Vítkovice and Hlučín. He became a regular in Baník Ostrava’s first team this season, playing 14 matches and scoring once in the Czech top division. His strong performances caught the attention of several clubs, but Sparta Prague moved quickly to secure him.
Sparta’s sports director and former Arsenal player, Tomáš Rosický, praised Uchenna, saying, “I’m very happy to welcome Emmanuel to Sparta. There was a lot of interest in him, but he chose us because he believes this is the best place for his development. He’s a talented young player with great potential and the qualities we look for in a defender.”
The exact transfer fee has not been revealed, but Baník Ostrava’s executive director, Michal Bělák, confirmed it involved a record-breaking release clause, along with bonuses and a percentage of future sales.
Uchenna expressed his excitement about joining Sparta Prague, saying, “Joining Sparta is the best decision. I had many offers, but as soon as my agent mentioned Sparta, I didn’t hesitate. Their style of play suits me perfectly.”
Uchenna will now join fellow Nigerian Victor Olatunji at the club, which is currently third in the league. He will also have the chance to play in Sparta’s Champions League campaign, with upcoming matches against Inter Milan and Bayer Leverkusen.
