Nigerian defensive midfielder Adeshina Rasaq Adetunji has completed a season-long loan move to Croatian top-flight club NK Slaven Belupo from Austrian Bundesliga side LASK Linz.
The 21-year-old will spend the entire 2026/27 campaign in the Croatian Prva HNL as he looks to gain valuable first-team experience after finding opportunities limited during his debut season in Austria.
Opportunity for Regular Football
Adetunji only joined LASK in July 2025 from Serbian SuperLiga outfit FK Novi Pazar, signing a long-term contract that runs until June 2028.
Despite arriving with high expectations, the Nigerian midfielder made only a handful of appearances in league and cup competitions during the 2025/26 season. The loan move to Slaven Belupo is expected to provide him with the consistent playing time needed to continue his development.
The Austrian club believes regular minutes in Croatia’s top division will better prepare the youngster for the demands of Bundesliga football when he returns to Linz.
Rapid Rise in Europe
Born on December 2, 2004, Adetunji established himself as one of the brightest young midfielders in Serbia during his spell with Novi Pazar.
The physically imposing midfielder made more than 60 league appearances for the club, earning a reputation for his ball-winning ability, tactical discipline, and composure in possession. His performances also included a healthy goal return from midfield, attracting interest from clubs across Europe before LASK secured his signature.
Standing at 1.80 metres, Adetunji is capable of shielding the backline, breaking up opposition attacks, and driving his team forward from central midfield.
Austrian Cup Winner
Although first-team opportunities were limited at LASK, Adetunji still experienced success during his first season with the club.
He was part of the LASK squad that lifted the Austrian Cup, adding silverware to his growing résumé despite not featuring in the final. The experience of training and competing alongside established Bundesliga players is expected to benefit him as he embarks on the next stage of his career.
Ready for a New Challenge
Adetunji has already expressed his excitement about joining Slaven Belupo, sharing photos on social media in the club’s blue colours while proudly holding a match ball.
The move continues the growing trend of talented Nigerian footballers seeking opportunities across Europe’s emerging leagues to accelerate their development through regular competitive football.
Based in Koprivnica, Slaven Belupo will be hoping the Nigerian midfielder can add steel, energy, and quality to their midfield as they prepare for the 2026/27 Croatian Prva HNL season.
For Adetunji, the loan represents an ideal opportunity to prove himself at the highest level in Croatia before returning to Austria with greater experience, confidence, and a stronger case for a regular place in the LASK first team.
