Transfers: Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle on alert as Hull City target Everton star

Everton midfielder Tim Iroegbunam. Copyright: IMAGO/DavidxBlunsden

Newly promoted Premier League side Hull City have emerged as serious contenders for the signature of Super Eagles-eligible midfielder Tim Iroegbunam, Soccernet.ng reports.

It is a development that could attract the attention of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle as he continues plans to strengthen Nigeria’s midfield options for the future.

Reports from England indicate that Everton are willing to listen to offers for the 22-year-old this summer, with the Merseyside club placing a valuation of around £20 million (approximately ₦36 billion) on the midfielder. However, negotiations could become more flexible because Iroegbunam has entered the final year of his contract at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Birmingham-born midfielder enjoyed his most productive campaign since arriving at Everton from Aston Villa in 2024. Under manager David Moyes, he gradually established himself as an important member of the squad, making 29 Premier League appearances and contributing three assists.

His performances have attracted attention from several clubs, with Hull City now among the strongest admirers, according to HullDailyMail. The Tigers are preparing for life back in the Premier League and are eager to add energy, athleticism and top-flight experience to their midfield before their opening league fixture against Manchester United on August 22.

Should the move materialise, Iroegbunam would become a teammate of Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi at Hull City. Ipswich Town have also been linked with the midfielder, while Everton remain open to a sale if their asking price is met.

Soccer Why Chelle and Super Eagles are monitoring the situation closely

Iroegbunam’s club future is of particular interest to Nigeria. Despite representing England at youth levels and helping the Young Lions win the UEFA European Under-19 Championship, he remains eligible to play for the Super Eagles because he has never featured in a competitive senior match for England.

Eric Chelle is understood to regard the Everton midfielder as one of the leading candidates to strengthen Nigeria’s midfield in the coming years. The Super Eagles coaching crew view him as a potential long-term successor to Wilfred Ndidi, whose experience has been vital for Nigeria over the past decade.

At 22, Iroegbunam offers the combination of youth, physicality and Premier League experience that Nigeria are actively seeking. His impressive defensive numbers, aerial ability and ball-winning qualities have reportedly made him a priority target in Chelle’s ongoing recruitment drive involving several dual-nationality players across Europe.

A move to Hull City could have significant implications for his international future. While remaining at Everton would keep him at an established Premier League club, regular first-team football at Hull could accelerate his development and potentially strengthen Nigeria’s efforts to convince him to commit to the Super Eagles.

Imhonlamhen

Imhonlamhen is a football writer and editor at Soccernet.ng with over six years’ experience shaping its editorial voice. A lifelong Arsenal and Super Eagles fan, he combines engineering precision with training in journalism and digital media. He has covered four AFCONs and two Women’s AFCON tournaments, specialising in Super Eagles history and tracking Nigerian players worldwide, while keeping a close eye on the NPFL and emerging homegrown talents.