Philip Otele: Brighton keen on winger who turned down potential move to Cardiff City in January

Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly keen on securing the services of Philip Otele, a 24-year-old Nigerian winger who trained with Arsenal youth team as a teenager. 

According to The Evening Standard. Otele has emerged as a target for the Seagulls thanks to his impressive performances in Romania's Liga 1 with CFR Cluj.

Allnigeriasoccer.com exclusively reported fifteen days ago that Cardiff City tested the waters regarding the signing of Otele but he showed no interest in transferring to the second tier of English football.

The Bluebirds Head of Recruitment, Patrick Deboys was in touch with the player's camp  in the January transfer window. 

Otele, after failing to break through at Arsenal's prestigious academy, embarked on a unique path that took him across Europe, gaining experience in the lower leagues of England before finding success abroad.

This unconventional route has not hindered his development, with Otele currently boasting a commendable record of 13 goals and six assists in 31 league matches for CFR Cluj.

Brighton's recruitment team, has pinpointed Otele as a hidden gem within European football.

His performances in Romania have convinced the Seagulls that he possesses the potential to thrive in the Premier League.

CFR Cluj are understood to value Otele at around four million euros, a price tag that is likely to appeal to Brighton's cost-conscious transfer strategy.

However, Brighton seem to be taking a cautious approach with Otele's potential acquisition.

Initial reports suggest that they plan to sign the winger and loan him out immediately, with partner club, Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, touted as the likely destination for this loan spell.

Ejim Kaycee

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