Gift Orban Seals Shock Loan Move To Amedspor

The agreement provides the 24-year-old forward with an opportunity to revive his career after falling out of Hoffenheim’s first-team plans and facing uncertainty over his future at the German club.

Orban joins Amedspor after spending the previous campaign on loan at Italian club Hellas Verona, where he scored seven goals and provided three assists in 29 Serie A appearances. Despite his individual contributions, Verona were relegated from the Italian top flight, while an altercation with a supporter towards the end of the season reportedly ended hopes of making his stay permanent.

The Nigerian international had also attracted interest from Serie A club Bologna during the summer transfer window, but negotiations did not result in a transfer.

Speaking on the move, Orban’s agent, Atta Aneke, revealed that Amedspor’s long-term vision and ambitious project were key factors behind the decision to join the Turkish club. He noted that the striker was impressed by the club’s clear objectives and passionate fan base, which aligned with his personal ambitions.

Aneke added that Orban is excited about competing in the Turkish Süper Lig, describing it as a highly competitive league that has served as a successful platform for several Nigerian footballers. He expressed confidence that the forward would settle quickly and make a significant contribution to Amedspor’s campaign in the top flight.

Orban first gained recognition in European football during his time with Norwegian club Stabæk before enjoying a prolific spell at Belgian side Gent, where he scored 32 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions. His impressive performances earned him a €12 million transfer to French club Lyon in January 2024.

The striker now becomes one of the latest Nigerian players to continue their career in Turkey, joining the growing list of compatriots plying their trade in the country’s top division.