Super Eagles-eligible goalkeeper Noah Atubolu is closing in on a move away from SC Freiburg, with Aston Villa and Bournemouth leading the race for his signature.
The 24-year-old has refused to sign a new contract despite having a deal that runs until 2027. After months of unsuccessful negotiations, both the player and Freiburg have agreed that a summer transfer is the best solution.
According to reports in Germany, Atubolu requested not to travel with Freiburg’s squad for their pre-season training camp as discussions over his future continue. The club has also withdrawn him from first-team activities, with the goalkeeper now training separately under a specialist coach to avoid injury before a transfer is completed.
His representatives are in talks with several Premier League clubs, but Atubolu has already rejected approaches from Hull City and Coventry City, preferring a move to a more established Premier League side.
Italian giants Juventus also explored a deal, but the goalkeeper has reportedly made England his preferred destination. Freiburg expect the transfer to be completed before the end of July.
Atubolu enjoyed an impressive 2025–26 campaign, keeping 10 clean sheets in all competitions and helping Freiburg reach the UEFA Europa League final.
Aston Villa and Bournemouth are currently considered the strongest contenders as both clubs seek to strengthen their goalkeeping options ahead of the new season.
Freiburg have already prepared for his departure by signing Mio Backhaus from Werder Bremen for around €15 million as his replacement.
However, the Bundesliga club remain firm on their valuation, demanding between €25 million and €30 million (£21.2m–£25.5m) before sanctioning the transfer.
Atubolu, who is eligible to represent Nigeria through his family despite playing for Germany at youth level, remains a player of interest to the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s hopes of securing his international allegiance were boosted after he was omitted from Germany’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
