Zulte Waregem outbid Barcelona to secure Nigerian talent Maliq Musa

Nine league appearances, one goal and one assist last season underline the experience Nigerian youngster Maliq Musa brings as he completes a loan move to Belgian club Zulte Waregem, the De Boeren, club’s Jong Essevee after arriving from NPFL side Ikorodu City.

Loan deal beats Barcelona interest

The loan deal, which includes an option for Zulte Waregem to make the move permanent, saw the Belgian club outmaneuver Spanish giants Barcelona and other top European suitors. Zulte Waregem’s swift action secured the signing of the highly rated youngster.

Musa arrives from Nigeria’s Premier Football League, having spent the previous season with NPFL side Ikorodu City. The Nigerian forward impressed with nine league appearances, one goal and one assist.

He will initially train with Jong Essevee, the club’s U‑23 side, to adapt to Belgian football before targeting a first‑team place. The coaching staff expects a gradual integration into the senior squad.

“Maliq was immediately convinced by our project here at Essevee,” assistant coach Davy De fauw said. He added that the player’s enormous qualities will be nurtured with the necessary time.

Also:Done read also the club’s official announcement for further details. Fans can follow updates on the club’s platforms.

The transfer underlines Zulte Waregem’s strategy of tapping African talent, a market increasingly contested by larger European clubs. It reflects a broader trend of Belgian teams seeking promising players from the NPFL.