Barnsley FC transfers: Former Arsenal midfielder and Nigerian international joins from Portuguese football
The 26-year-old, capped four times by his country, joins on a three-year deal from the Primeira League outfit, subject to international clearance.
After impressing at the 2015 Under-17 World Cup where he won the Golden Ball award as the best player in the tournament, Nwakali joined Premier League giants Arsenal.
Following various loan spells across Europe, Nwakali joined La Liga side Huesca in 2019 and went on to play for Alcorcón and Ponferradina in Spain before joining Chaves in 2023.
“We knew that the player wanted to return to England and that gave us an opportunity to bring him to Oakwell and we believe his experience playing in some of Europe’s top leagues will benefit us over the coming years.
“He has had a shortened pre-season and we’ll ease him into first team action over the coming weeks. “The midfielder commented: “I am very happy to sign for Barnsley Football Club. I spoke to Mladen and the head coach earlier in the summer and I knew that this was an exciting opportunity for me, I know I can bring a lot to the team.
“I am looking forward to being back in England and making Oakwell my home for the next three years.”Preston’s season started on Friday (August 9) with an underwhelming home defeat to Sheffield United. Ryan Lowe has since left his role as Lilywhites manager, departing by mutual consent.
In a statement, Lowe said: “Obviously, as you know, my time at Preston North End has come to an end. I’ve had an unbelievable two-and-a-half years, met some incredible people and coached some fantastic players, but I feel now is the right time to move on”I’ve had an unbelievable time working with Peter Ridsdale [Preston director] over the last two and a half years. Thank you to Peter, Craig Hemmings and the Hemmings family for their support and backing and giving me the opportunity to manage a fantastic football club and establish myself as a Championship manager.”When a manager moves on, speculation regarding to follow. Among the early names to emerge as a potential replacement is Heckingbottom, who is said to be a possible candidate for the role
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