Czech club Viktoria Plzeň have announced the signing of Nigerian striker Salim Fago Lawal from Croatian side NK Istra 1961 on a three-and-a-half-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
Lawal, who was part of the Super Eagles’ 28-man squad for the recently concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, arrives as a direct replacement for fellow Nigerian Rafiu Durosinmi, who left the club earlier in the transfer window to join Italian Serie A side Pisa.
The 23-year-old enjoyed an impressive spell in Croatia, scoring 15 goals in 64 appearances across all competitions for Istra, before making the switch to Plzeň – a move he believes has come at the right time in his career.
Reacting to the transfer, Lawal expressed his excitement and eagerness to get started with his new club.
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“I know Viktoria primarily from their performances in European competitions, where they have achieved strong results over a long period. This offer really interested me, and I see it as a step forward in my career. I want to help the club as much as possible,” Lawal said after signing his contract.
“Having just returned from the Africa Cup of Nations with the national team, I feel well prepared and ready to be fully available to the coaches immediately. I’m looking forward to my first training session and getting to know my new teammates,” he added.
Viktoria Plzeň sporting director Martin Vozábal revealed that the club had closely monitored Lawal during his time in the Croatian league, and Durosinmi’s departure accelerated the move.
“After Rafi Durosinmi left, we wanted to increase competition in our attacking options, and that is exactly what Salim Fago Lawal brings,” Vozábal said.
“We have been following him in the Croatian league. He is a quick, versatile player who can operate both as a striker and on the wing. I’m pleased we were able to complete the transfer and that he will be available for the start of the league this weekend.”
Lawal will wear the No. 70 jersey at Viktoria Plzeň and is expected to be in contention for the club’s league fixture against NK Lokomotiva on Friday.
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