Ligue 1’s Lorient and SK Beveren agree deal for gifted Nigerian youngster

Gifted Nigerian winger, Taofeek Ismaheel has secured a move to SK Beveren ahead of the coming season, Soccernet.ng reports.

Ismaheel spent last season on loan at SK Beveren and impressed despite being hampered by injuries.

Beveren wanted the young winger back in Belgium and have successfully negotiated with FC Lorient to extend Ismaheel’s stay by another year.

The Belgian league campaigners have also secured a purchase option for the 22-year-old attacker.

Ismaheel, who had previously played in Norway and France, joined the Freethiel in the summer of 2022. Despite facing a knee injury, the Nigerian displayed his skills in 23 games, netting a goal in both league and cup matches.

Additionally, he made seven crucial assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities.
His impressive performance last season has left SK Beveren thrilled to retain his services.

Beveren’s Sporting Director, Tom Van den Abbeele expressed his confidence in Ismaheel, stating that despite his unfortunate injury, the player’s qualities convinced them to extend his loan for another year.

The purchase option further highlights their belief in his abilities.

Van den Abbeele emphasized Ismaheel’s eagerness to learn and adapt to different positions, making him a valuable asset on and off the field.

CEO Antoine Gobin commended Ismaheel’s contribution to the squad, particularly considering his previous experiences with multiple clubs.

Gobin stressed the importance of making the player feel at home and confirmed that talks with Lorient to secure Ismaheel’s extended stay had begun earlier in the winter, reflecting the club’s clear intentions for some time.

Ismaheel has 23 goals and 20 assists in 108 club games across his young career.