After his standout performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali finds his stock on the rise, with two clubs showing recent interest in acquiring the talented shot-stopper.
Reports indicate that both EFL Championship team Queens Park Rangers and Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq are interested in acquiring the services of 27-year-old goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano mentioned on Sunday via his social media account that Nwabali is a significant target for various clubs, highlighting QPR and Al-Ettifaq as particularly eager to secure his services. Chippa United, Nwabali’s current club, is reportedly open to considering offers for him during the upcoming summer transfer window.
“Nigeria GK Stanley Nwabali, on the list of different clubs as Al Ettifaq in Saudi and Queens Park Rangers in UK have enquired about him,” he wrote.
“His South African club Chippa United will consider his future move in the next months.”
Starting his career in the Nigeria Premier League with clubs like Go Round FC, Enyimba, Lobi Stars, and Katsina United, Stanley Nwabali’s trajectory took a significant turn when he joined the South African side in 2022.
However, it was his inclusion in the Eagles squad by Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro just before the AFCON that brought him considerable attention.
During the tournament, Nwabali showcased his talent, keeping four clean sheets in seven matches. His standout moment came in the semi-finals against South Africa, where his heroic penalty saves helped Nigeria secure a 4-2 victory, earning him the man of the match award and further endearing him to fans.
Upon his return to South Africa, Nwabali was warmly welcomed by Chippa United fans at Port Elizabeth Airport.
Despite expressing a desire to repay the club’s support by staying for another two years, the goalkeeper hinted at the possibility of a move elsewhere next season.
While QPR and Al-Ettifaq have shown interest in Nwabali, other clubs like Royale Union Saint-Gilloise have also expressed interest in acquiring his services. Despite the transfer speculations, Nwabali remains focused on his current club, awaiting concrete offers.
“I only see offers online. I have never seen any offer on my table,” Nwabali added.
In the midst of his newfound fame, Nwabali insists now is the time for him to double his efforts.
“I am still Stanley. I want to work harder than before now. If I was putting in 100 per cent before, now I have to double that because a lot of people are looking up to me now,” he stated.