Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika is edging closer to a move to Eintracht Frankfurt, with the Bundesliga side having raised their offer for the Club Brugge man in a bid to fend off competition from Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

According to Bild, Frankfurt have submitted an improved proposal of around €9m to persuade Club Brugge to part with the 25-year-old during the current transfer window, although the figure remains below the Belgian club’s valuation and less than the amount they originally paid to sign him.

Onyedika, who operates primarily as a defensive midfielder, is under contract with the Jupiler Pro League side until June 30, 2027, and is valued at 23 million euros by Transfermarkt, a figure underlining Club Brugge’s reluctance to accept a significantly lower offer.

Frankfurt have tracked the Nigerian for well over a year and believe this summer represents their best chance of completing a deal, with just one year left on his contract and no agreement over a renewal raising the risk that Club Brugge could lose him for nothing next summer.

The Bundesliga side struggled defensively last season, conceding 65 league goals, the highest tally among clubs in the top half of the standings, and view Onyedika’s ball-winning ability and effectiveness in transition as key to strengthening their midfield alongside fellow new signing Noel Aseko.

Onyedika reportedly earns an annual salary of €677,851 at Club Brugge, a factor potential buyers must weigh alongside any transfer fee.

He brings extensive continental pedigree to any move, having made 24 Champions League appearances, five in the Europa League and 13 in the Conference League, and finished third with Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations in January.