Belgian Pro League side Zulte Waregem have completed the signing of highly rated Ikorodu City winger Musa Maliq Omotayo, Trybal News reports.
The 18-year-old Nigerian successfully completed his medical examination this morning and has already trained with his new teammates, with an official announcement of the transfer expected shortly.
Transfer market expert Sacha Tavolieri first reported on Tuesday that Zulte Waregem had completed the signing of the Ikorodu City starlet. The transfer has since been independently confirmed, with the deal now done and dusted.
Omotayo became eligible to sign a professional contract with a European club after turning 18 on Monday, August 17.
Zulte Waregem had been closely monitoring the youngster’s progress at Ikorodu City before inviting him to Belgium for further assessment. He impressed the club’s coaching staff during his trial period and was subsequently offered a contract.
The move represents a major transfer coup for Zulte Waregem, who beat competition from several European clubs for Omotayo’s signature, including Spanish giants Barcelona.
Barcelona had planned to assess the winger during trials this summer, but Zulte Waregem moved quickly to secure his services.
Omotayo enjoyed a promising final season with Ikorodu City in the Nigeria Premier Football League, making 11 appearances. He scored against Niger Tornadoes and provided the match-winning assist in Ikorodu City’s 1–0 victory over Bendel Insurance.
The talented Nigerian now leaves Ikorodu City for his first European adventure, joining Zulte Waregem with the Belgian club betting on his potential to develop into a key attacking player.
