Soccer
Super Eagles forward Salim Fago Lawal during AFCON match between Algeria and Nigeria. Photo by Segun Ogunfeyitimi Copyright: imagoxshengolpixsx
Super Eagles forward Salim Fago Lawal is on the brink of completing a move to Czech First League side Viktoria Plzeň, Soccernet.ng reports.
Negotiations have now entered their final stage for the signing of Fago, who featured for Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Uganda and in the tournament’s preparatory friendly against Egypt.
While both clubs have reached a broad agreement, final confirmation is still pending as minor terms and conditions are being resolved.
Soccer Salim Fago Lawal transfer close to completion
Soccernet.ng gathered that Viktoria Plzeň and NK Istra 1961 are almost done with the transfer, with only small contractual clauses left to be settled before paperwork can be signed.
Despite the brief delay, the deal is believed to be at least 80 per cent complete, and there is growing confidence that Lawal will be cleared to travel once the remaining conditions are met.
Soccer Transfer Fee, and Medical at Viktoria Plzeň
Per Footy Africa, Viktoria Plzeň are expected to pay a guaranteed €2.4 million for the Nigerian forward, with performance-based add-ons capable of raising the package to €3 million. The deal also includes a sell-on clause, ensuring NK Istra 1961 will benefit from any future transfer.
Lawal is scheduled to undergo a medical examination in the Czech Republic on Monday, after which the transfer is expected to be formally completed and announced.
The 23-year-old is set to replace Rafiu Durosinmi, who recently left the club to join Italian side Pisa.
Soccer Lawal’s Super Eagles journey
Lawal first came to wider attention after his impressive displays for Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, before earning a call-up to the Super Eagles squad for the 2025 AFCON tournament.
He made his senior international debut against Uganda in Nigeria’s final group match of the tournament.
Formerly of Mavlon FC, Lawal has scored six goals in 18 appearances this season for NK Istra 1961 and is known for his ability to operate as a central striker or across both wings.
The move to Viktoria Plzeň is viewed as a major step forward in his career and a chance to compete at the highest level in Europe.
Ayomide Oguntimehin
Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng. He has interviewed Super Eagles stars like William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Ademola Lookman, and is known for breaking major transfer stories.
Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, and Milan News24. He holds a Master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X (formerly Twitter): @ayo_oguntimehin
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