Nigerian teenage winger Maliq Omotayo has signed with Belgian club Zulte Waregem. He comes from Ikorodu City and was pursued by several clubs, including Barcelona. PUNCH Sports Extra has the details.
Transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri shared on Tuesday that the deal is complete. Omotayo passed his medical exams successfully.
The 18-year-old became eligible for a professional contract in Europe after turning 18 on August 17.
Zulte Waregem had been following Omotayo’s growth at Ikorodu City. They invited him to Belgium for a trial, where he impressed the coaching staff and got a contract offer.
Barcelona was also interested and planned to evaluate him in trials this summer. But Zulte Waregem acted faster to secure him.
Omotayo leaves Ikorodu City after a strong showing in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League. He played nine matches, starting six, scored one goal, and assisted once, averaging 71.4 minutes on the pitch.
He also contributed to Ikorodu City’s journey to the President Federation Cup final. His attacking skills caught the eyes of European scouts.
Before this, Omotayo developed at Lagos-based Imperial FC in The Creative Championship. His speed, creativity, and hard work helped him stand out as a promising young player at Ikorodu City.
He will initially join Jong Essevee, the U23 team of Zulte Waregem. There, he will keep developing and adapting to Belgian football before aiming for the senior team.
This move marks a big step in Omotayo’s career. The teenager is now set to grow in Europe after a successful season in Nigerian football.
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