Nigeria international defender Abdullahi Bewene will remain with Czech club Banik Ostrava for the start of the 2026/27 season after his proposed summer transfer failed to materialise due to the club’s high valuation.
The 21-year-old defender attracted significant interest from several European clubs following his impressive breakthrough with the Super Eagles. Bewene earned his first senior caps for Nigeria during the recent international window, featuring against Poland and Portugal.
His performances further raised his profile and reportedly generated interest from a number of clubs across Europe. However, Banik Ostrava’s decision to demand more than €10 million for the versatile defender proved to be a major stumbling block.
According to a member of Bewene’s representatives, several clubs expressed interest, but none were prepared to meet Banik Ostrava’s valuation.
“Banik insisted on interested teams meeting their valuation, and none could match it, and they also didn’t lower it. That was what cost him a move this summer, but in January we will go again in the winter transfer window.”
Bewene recently signed a long-term contract extension with Banik Ostrava, committing his future to the Czech club until June 2031. The new agreement strengthened the club’s negotiating position and allowed them to demand a substantial fee for one of their most promising young players.
The defender has risen rapidly since joining Banik’s system as a teenager and established himself in the first team before earning recognition from Nigeria coach Éric Chelle.
Primarily deployed on the right side, Bewene possesses the athleticism and versatility to contribute in both defensive and attacking phases. His emergence has made him one of the more promising young defenders in the Super Eagles setup.
Although the failed transfer means Bewene will continue his development in the Czech Republic, his representatives are already looking ahead to January.
With another strong first half of the season, the Nigerian could attract renewed interest from clubs willing to meet Banik Ostrava’s asking price.
For now, Bewene will remain focused on Banik Ostrava, where consistent performances could further increase his value and strengthen his position ahead of the January transfer window.
