Belgian champions Club Brugge have made the decision to retain their Nigerian international Raphael Onyedika, following reports linking the player with a summer exit.

Onyedika had been heavily tipped to depart, with some reports even suggesting that Brugge had agreed on a deal with an unnamed club.

As the transfer window closed in Europe’s top five leagues, speculation grew about a potential move to Turkish champions Galatasaray, where the transfer window remains open.

Galatasaray were reported to have reached personal terms with Onyedika and were keen on finalizing a deal with Club Brugge.

However, according to Voetbalkrant.com, the Belgian club ultimately refused to sanction the transfer.

Club Brugge reportedly found it difficult to secure a replacement for the defensive midfielder, with the Belgian transfer window also closed, leaving the club without an opportunity to recruit reinforcements.

With the next transfer window opening in January, the earliest possible time for Onyedika to leave the club would be the winter window.

Galatasaray recently secured the signing of Onyedika’s international teammate, Victor Osimhen, on loan from Napoli.

Victor Osimhen with his representative, Roberto Calenda during the Player’s official signing ceremony with Galatasaray SK. Photo | X

The 22 year-old and Osimhen featured in Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Rwanda earlier this week.