Summer transfers took an unexpected turn this week when Nigerian international Kingsley Ehizibue became available on a free transfer after leaving Udinese. Watford and PEC Zwolle have both been linked with a move for the player. The 31-year-old departed Udinese this summer after failing to agree a new contract with the Serie A powerhouse. Ehizibue is now available on a free transfer, something that has piqued interest from both English and Dutch sides.
Signed to Udinese in 2018, Ehizibue spent four seasons in Italy before letting his contract expire. During his time with Udinese, he established himself as a solid Serie A performer who can play either right-back or as a wingback. Despite impressing for the club and earning praise from head coach Gennaro Gattuso, not to mention buzz from social media and bookies in Nigeria, Ehizibue wasn’t seen as part of Udinese’s long-term plans. With him now available for free, Serie A clubs won’t be the only ones with him on their radar.
Watford have been busy preparing for life back in the Championship this summer, but they have eyes set firmly on the Premier League. To that end, bringing in Premier League-experienced players has been a target for the Hornets this summer.
Enter Kingsley Ehizibue. Ehizibue played in both of the aforementioned positions during his Premier League stint with Watford and could offer Championship side Watford quality and know-how at no cost to the club. Ehizibue began his professional career with Dutch side PEC Zwolle, quickly establishing himself as a regular in the starting lineup. Ehizibue spent three seasons with Zwolle before joining a Bundesliga club.
A return to the Netherlands for Ehizibue this summer would be sentimental if he agrees to terms with PEC Zwolle. Ehizibue is said to be high on the wishlist for the Dutch side, who could use his experience in their squad.
So where will Ehizibue end up this summer? That is something only time will tell, but what we do know is that he finds himself at another familiar crossroads in his career. The decision between Watford and returning to the Netherlands and playing in the Eredivisie for PEC Zwolle is one every player dreams of. Will Ehizibue take the Premier League route or decide to head back home?
Whoever signs Kingsley Ehizibue will not be taxed by his buying fee. Two European leagues will be fighting over the Nigeria international, who has played at the highest level in England and in Italy. Only time will tell where Ehizibue ends up, but we’ll have you covered with the latest on his situation and possible move.
