Nigerian attacker Aniekeme Okon could be heading to English League One side Wigan Athletic after the club made contact with his current team, Rivers United, The Nerve Africa sources have exclusively learned.
Wigan have been monitoring the winger for close to three weeks and are convinced he could add significant value to their setup. The English side intends to finalize his purchase during the upcoming January transfer window, provided negotiations with Rivers United progress positively.
It should be noted that Okon has been at Rivers United for only six months, having joined from fellow Nigeria Professional Football League side Remo Stars on a two-year contract. With one-and-a-half years remaining on his deal, Rivers United are expected to demand significant compensation from Wigan to sanction the move.
A source close to Rivers United confirmed to The Nerve Africa that Wigan has inquired about their star player, and serious negotiations are set to commence this week. The source further revealed that Rivers United could demand up to €360,000 (approximately 590 million Nigerian Naira).
“There was contact on Tuesday from Wigan regarding the contract situation of Aniekeme (Okon), and they are ready to begin negotiations this week. He has been monitored for close to a month. Rivers are willing to approve the move as long as Wigan meets their valuation of the player,” the source told The Nerve Africa in an exclusive interview.
The industrious winger, known for his pace and work rate, has made 17 appearances for Rivers United this season, scoring twice and providing four assists. In the previous campaign at Remo Stars, he featured in 25 matches, contributing three goals and seven assists.
Before joining Rivers United, Okon played for Akwa United and Kano Pillars, making 32 and 31 appearances, respectively, across all competitions. At Akwa United, he scored 10 goals, while at Kano Pillars, he netted six during the 2021/22 season.
On the international stage, the 25-year-old has represented Nigeria at the youth level, featuring for the U18s, U20s, and U23 teams. However, he has yet to earn a competitive cap for the senior team, the Super Eagles.
