English Championship side Queens Park Rangers (QPR) has set its sights on Nigerian international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali as they gear up for a transfer battle ahead of next season.
With Asmir Begovic's contract nearing its end, the club is already considering a replacement for the Bosnian international.
Nwabali, who currently plays for South African club Chippa United, has emerged as a potential target for QPR, but the London club now has to ward off the challenge of Saudi club side Al Ettifaq, who according to Fabrizio Romano, are trying to lure the former Lobi Stars goaltender to the Middle East.
Despite being untested in European football, the 27-year-old's international experience with Nigeria has earned him a lot of plaudits, having won nine caps for the country, including a notable performance at the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast.
Nwabali was a reliable figure for the Super Eagles in Ivory Coast as they reached the final of the tournament before eventually losing to the tournament hosts in the final.
However, his commanding displays, quick reflexes, penalty saves and effectively ‘playing with the team' has put him on the radar and he could be in line for a move out of the PSL in South Africa in the summer.
Fans reaction to Nwabali transfer rumour sparks excitement
Rangers' fan pundit Louis has described the potential summer transfer news as ‘surprising and exciting' for the Londoners,
“I was a bit surprised when I saw the tweet from Fabrizio Romano linking us with the Nigerian goalkeeper,” said fan pundit Louis Moir.
‘Obviously, we’re going to be looking for a goalkeeper ahead of next season, with Asmir Begovic’s contract running out. From what we know, it’s only us and clubs in Saudi that have enquired about Nwabali.
“I don’t know too much about him, but he had a good African Cup of Nations with Nigeria. He plays out in South Africa, which is probably not the best level of football. Then again, keepers can adapt to different leagues and ways of playing.
“It would certainly be exciting and one that I’d welcome, so if it were to happen, it would be an interesting move. Although he plays in the South African league, to be Nigeria’s number one, he has obviously got something about him.
“He’s also a decent age, arguably quite young for a keeper, so he has plenty of years ahead of him. It could be an exciting one, and hopefully, the rumours are true, and something more will develop from it.
“He won’t be the only goalkeeper we’re looking at, there will be other names, but I’d be pleased by that potential signing.”
Nwabali transfer news: QPR must avoid the drop
The transfer, if it must be done later in the summer, is however, hinged on QPR's performance and ability to maintain their position in the Championship.
The London outfit has shown some promising form in recent weeks and there is optimism surrounding the potential acquisition of Nigeria’s new number one who has been a described as a good upgrade to Begovic.
Nwabali's inclusion in QPR's squad would provide competition in the goalkeeping department and potentially offer a long-term solution for the club.
While other goalkeeping options are being considered, Nwabali's performance at the international level has positioned him as a favourable choice.
Whilst no deals can be finalised now, the South African-based goalkeeper has been penned as a huge potential.
In their quest to survive, their three-game winning streak came to a halt in midweek following a 2-2 draw against fifth-placed West Brom.
They remained 19th on the Championship table, one point above the drop zone with 10 matches left to be played.
