Stanley Nwabali contract situation update ahead of expected summer interest

Chippa United and Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is set to become a free agent after the current season, sources from South Africa have revealed.

Nwabali, who joined Chippa United in October 2022 after departing Nigerian club Katsina United, is wrapping up his second year with the South African outfit. His time with Chippa United has been marked by noteworthy achievements, particularly his recent emergence as the first-choice goalkeeper for the Nigerian national team.

During the last five months, Nwabali’s stellar performances played a key role in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Although narrowly missing out on the tournament’s best goalkeeper award to South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, Nwabali’s displays caught the attention of several clubs.

Belgian Pro League giants Union Saint-Gilloise, Championship side Queens Park Rangers, and South African club Kaizer Chiefs were among those reportedly eyeing a move for the 27-year-old shot-stopper. However, no formal offers materialized during the winter transfer window.

Despite his notable achievements and growing interest from potential suitors, Nwabali opted to return to Chippa United and was recently key to their run to the Nedbank Cup semi-final. Nevertheless, indications suggest that he is now preparing for a potential move to Europe in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Reports from South Africa’s Soccer Laduma indicate that Nwabali is unlikely to extend his contract with Chippa United beyond the current season, making him available on a free transfer.

This development is expected to be well-received by clubs like Union SG and Queens Park Rangers, along with any other European club interested in acquiring the services of the former Enyimba FC star.

Nwabali’s impressive record at the AFCON, where he kept four clean sheets in seven games for Nigeria, further adds to his appeal as a sought-after goalkeeper in the transfer market.