Nigerian striker Salim Fago Lawal has completed a club-record move from Croatian side NK Istra to FC Viktoria Plzeň of Czech Republic, www.aclsports.com reports.
The former Nigeria U20 international, who was part of the Super Eagles squad to the last AFCON in Morocco, has completed his switch following days of negotiations as an offensive reinforcement for Viktorka. The transfer deal, a club record for Istra, is reportedly worth €2.4 million, and could rise to €3 million in add-ons.
The 23-year-old scored 15 goals and 2 assists during his time at Istra in Croatia, and he is seen as a replacement for another Nigerian striker, Rafiu Durosinmi, who left for Serie A to join Pisa earlier in the transfer window.
“After Rafiu Durosinmi left, we wanted to increase the competition in our offense, which is being fulfilled by the arrival of Salim Fag Lawal. We had him followed from the Croatian league. He is a speedy type of player who can play both as a striker and on the wing. I am glad that we have now managed to implement the entire transfer and we can count on him for the weekend league start,” said the club’s sporting director, Martin Vozábal.
On his part, Lawal spoke about the club’s work in European competitions and how the club can move his career forward in the long term.
“I know Viktorka primarily from their work in European competitions, where they have had great results in the long term. So this offer really interested me, I see it as a step forward in my career, and I will want to help the club as much as possible,” said an excited Salim Fago Lawal after signing a three-and-a-half-year contract.
“Given that I was with the national team for the AFCON, I think I am well prepared, and I will want to be fully available to the coaches immediately. I am looking forward to the first training session when I get to know my new teammates,” added the new signing, who will wear the number 70 of the club’s red and blue kit.
Having made his debut for the Super Eagles in the test match against Egypt and an official appearance against Uganda at the AFCON, Lawal will hope to establish himself at Viktorka.
