Contrary to earlier reports that Chikeluba Ofoedu is contracted to an amateur clubside Oak Zeel FC of Nsukka, allnigeriasoccer.com has come across reports that the attacker is actually a free agent as a result of the NFF decision in the tussle involving Rangers International, Oak Zeel FC and UNTH FC over the ownership of the player's economic rights.

According to a source very close to the player, by virtue of the NFF decision in that matter, if the Turkish club where he played last season on loan, 1461 Trabzon do not take up the uption to buy out his contract, then he is automatically a free player.

"Please don't mind Oak Zeel FC and their lawyer's claims that Chikeluba is their player.

'' Chikeluba is a free agent and can join any club he wants without them having to pay a transfer fee for him.

'' The NFF ruled so in their decision after the matter went to them for arbitration early this year. I know this because I have a copy of the decision.

'' They should allow the young man to continue with his career instead of trying to be a stumbling block to his progress," our visibly angry source concluded.

All efforts to reach Oak Zeel FC or their lawyers proved abortive.