By Korede James
Swiss top flight club FC Basel have announced the signing of Nigerian forward Philip Otele from United Arab Emirates (UAE) side Al-Wahda.
Basel, in a statement, said Otele has joined on loan until the end of the season.
The club also stated that they have an option to make the deal for the 25-year-old permanent.
“Last summer, FCB scouts had already set their sights on Philip Otele, but the transfer did not materialize,” Basel said.
“Now, Red and Blue have the perfect opportunity for a loan with a realistic purchase option.
“In the summer, Philip Otele moved from the Romanian club CFR Cluj to Al-Wahda in the UAE Pro League, but things didn’t go as he had hoped. At Cluj, however, he scored 18 goals and 8 assists in 45 games.
“At his previous clubs – in Romania at UTA Arad and in Lithuania at Kauno Zalgiris – the Nigerian also recorded impressive scoring figures and stood out for his athletic style of play.”
Speaking after completing the loan move Otele said he is delighted he was able to sign with FC Basel.
“The club is internationally known for its successes and, both in the past and today, top players who have had world-class careers have played here,” he said.
“This is a great opportunity for me personally and I am very happy that I can join this club today.
“With my style of play, I try to give the team an unpredictable element in attack. I am fast and versatile in attack.”
