Former Southampton and Royal Antwerp forward, Victor Udoh, has died in Nigeria at the age of 21. Reports describe his death as occurring under “suspicious circumstances”.
According to The Mirror UK, authorities found Udoh dead in Abuja, although they had not confirmed the exact cause of death at the time of reporting.
The publication also stated that the young striker recently returned to Nigeria after ending his spell with Czech club Dynamo České Budějovice, which he joined after leaving Southampton in 2025.
Royal Antwerp confirmed his passing in a statement published on its official X account on Tuesday.
The club said, “With great dismay, RAFC has learned of the passing of former player Victor Udoh (21).”
It added that Udoh joined the Bosuil in the 2023/2024 season, where he scored 12 goals in 21 matches for the Young Reds in his first campaign. He also made his senior debut in a home match against Charleroi that season.
The statement noted that Udoh made 28 official appearances for Royal Antwerp and provided two assists before he moved to Southampton.
The club expressed condolences to his family, friends and loved ones, wishing them strength during the difficult period, and added, “Rest in peace, Victor.”
Udoh signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with Southampton but left after about seven months without making a senior appearance, departing by mutual consent in search of regular playing time.
Before moving to England, he played for Royal Antwerp after joining from Abuja-based Hypebuzz and progressing through the reserve team.
He gained a reputation as a promising young talent in Europe, attracting attention before his move to Southampton.
His former teammate and ex-Watford midfielder, Pierre Dwomoh, reacted on Instagram, saying he first saw the news on Tuesday morning and initially thought it was a dream before realising it was true. He also said some of Udoh’s relatives confirmed his death.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the circumstances surrounding his death.