Rivers United’s pursuit of Lobi Stars forward Joseph Atule has hit a stumbling block as the player has reversed his stance on the transfer negotiations.
Atule, who stood out as one of the top performers in the recently concluded NPFL23 season, played a crucial role in guiding Lobi Stars to a spot in the Super Six tournament.
Impressed by his consistent displays throughout the regular season, Rivers United made a move to acquire the winger’s services during the off-season. Initial reports suggested that Atule had agreed to join the club, with a reported monthly salary of ₦600,000. However, conflicting reports have since emerged, contradicting those earlier claims.
In a surprising turn of events, Atule has now revised his demands for the transfer. The winger is reportedly seeking a monthly salary in the vicinity of ₦1 million, along with a two-year contract extension with Rivers United. Additionally, he is requesting a substantial signing-on bonus of ₦4 million as part of the deal.
Rivers United, eager to bolster their squad ahead of their second season in the CAF Confederation Cup, are keen to secure the services of the dynamic winger promptly. With their sights set on making a mark in continental competition, the club is determined to finalize a deal with Atule as soon as possible.
Atule’s recent performances have caught the attention of several clubs, and Rivers United recognizes his potential as a valuable asset. As negotiations continue, the two parties will strive to find common ground and reach an agreement that satisfies both the player and the club.
As the transfer saga unfolds, Rivers United will remain focused on their goal of strengthening their squad and assembling a formidable team for the challenges that lie ahead. The outcome of the negotiations with Joseph Atule could significantly impact the club’s prospects in domestic and continental competitions in the upcoming season.
