Eighteen year old Nigerian forward David Oguejiofor has completed a move to Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr from Kaduna based Simoiben Football Academy.

The transfer was finalised before the close of the January transfer window, with Oguejiofor joining Al Nassr on an initial six month loan deal that includes an option for a permanent transfer at the end of the season.

Oguejiofor will begin his journey with the club’s U21 side, where his development will be closely monitored ahead of a potential promotion to the senior team. 

In a sign of the club’s early confidence in him, the youngster was invited to train with the first team just two days ago, even before the official signing of his contract.

The experience marked a surreal moment for the teenager, who only weeks ago was watching the stars of Al Nassr on television. 

He now finds himself training alongside global names such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, João Félix and Iñigo Martínez.

Confirming the deal, Simoiben Football Academy president Ibukun Moses Simon expressed pride in the player’s progress and optimism about his future.

“All paperwork for the deal has been signed already, and we wish him all the best while in Saudi Arabia, hoping he will follow in the footsteps of our other players who have gone on to make the best of their move from us,” she said.

Simoiben Football Academy has built a reputation for producing top talents. Its most high profile graduate remains Benjamin Fredrick of English Premier League side Brentford, who has already made his mark with the Super Eagles. Another alumnus, Emmanuel Michael, currently plays for Austrian club LASK.

Michael was named in the Super Eagles’ provisional squad for the recently concluded AFCON but missed out on the final 28-man list, while injury ruled Fredrick out of selection.

With his move to Al Nassr, Oguejiofor now joins a growing list of academy products stepping onto the global stage, as his Kaduna to Riyadh journey officially begins.