Promising Nigerian central midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has been rewarded with a new deal by French Ligue 1 club Rennes.

Rennes reported via their official website on Wednesday that Ugochukwu is the first 2004-born player on the books of the club to sign his first professional contract.

Allnigeriasoccer.com informed eleven months ago that he was expected to ink a three-year professional contract at the end of the 2019-2020 season, which has come to pass, with the player now committed to The Red and Blacks until 2023.

Blessed with excellent physical attributes, powerful and tall for his age, Ugochukwu has been likened to former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira.

"This signature in my training club represents a lot. It’s a source of pride for me who have been there since the U9 category," Ugochukwu stated.

"I’m really excited even if this signing is just a step. Now it's up to me to work hard to be able to join the pro group.

"Last season was special for me because I had an injury that kept me off the pitch for quite a while. I knew how to take my pain patiently.

"Now, I’m looking forward to going back to the field and proving that I deserve what’s happening to me today. "

Ugochukwu, who is eligible to represent his country of birth France as well as Nigeria internationally, is willing to represent the Nigeria U20s if approached by the Nigerian Federation.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : staderennais.com