The Croatian HNL may not always grab headlines like the top five European leagues, but it has welcomed a few talented Nigerians over the years with transfer fees that show just how much these players were valued.
In this article, Footynaija.com takes you through some of the most expensive Nigerian transfers into Croatian football history.
3. Samuel Eduok – €250k
In the 2019/20 season, right winger Samuel Eduok made a €250,000 switch to HNK Hajduk Split. The former Esperance and Kasimpasa forward had already made his mark in Tunisia and Turkey before heading to Croatia at 25. Eduok injected pace and experience into Hajduk’s attack and played a key role in their push for European qualification.
2. Justice Ohajunwa – €250k
Justice Ohajunwa is the latest Nigerian to complete a move to Croatia, signing for NK Osijek ahead of the 2024/25 season in a €250,000 deal.
At 24, the centre-forward earned the switch thanks to his strong physical presence and sharp finishing. Among other things, the move highlights Osijek’s increasing focus on scouting Nigerian talent, and Ohajunwa is definitely one to watch in the ongoing campaign.
1. Iyayi Atiemwen – €2.65m
Back in the 2018/19 season, Dinamo Zagreb made a bold statement by shelling out €2.65 million for Iyayi Atiemwen, the highest fee ever paid for a Nigerian player in the Croatian league.
Just 24 at the time, the left winger arrived from HNK Gorica after a breakout campaign where he impressed early, notching 7 goals in 17 league appearances during the 2018–19 1. HNL season.