Cercle Brugge have completed the signing of Nigerian winger Tunde Akinsola. The 23-year-old attacker joins from Portuguese side AVS Futebol SAD, putting pen to paper on a contract that runs until June 2030 with an option for a further year. The deal was reported this week by The Nigerian Voice. The reinforcement arrives as Cercle Brugge sit 13th in the Jupiler Pro League after four matchdays, with just two points from their opening fixtures.
What is Tunde Akinsola's career path?
Akinsola started his career at Valiant FC in Nigeria before moving to Sweden at age 17 to join Vasalund. His big break came in 2022 when he signed for Spanish club Real Valladolid. He initially featured for their reserve team but progressed to the senior squad. His first-team La Liga debut came the following season, making a substitute appearance against Sevilla. In early 2024, he moved on loan to AVS Futebol SAD, a move that was made permanent later that same year.
Where does he fit in the Cercle Brugge squad?
Technical director Luciano Murchio expects Akinsola to add depth to the forward line with his pace and direct style of play. "He is a player capable of causing problems for defenders in one-on-one situations and during quick transitions," Murchio said. He also pointed to Akinsola's flexibility across multiple attacking roles as a key asset. Murchio expressed confidence that the Nigerian's profile suits the club's attacking philosophy and that he will contribute to creating scoring opportunities. His arrival provides a timely boost with winger Joel Ndala currently sidelined. The current squad list shows all available players.
What is Cercle Brugge's current league situation?
The Bruges-based side has had a difficult start to the 2026/27 campaign. With two points from four matches, they occupy 13th place in the standings. They have scored five goals but conceded seven, resulting in a -2 goal difference. They already trail league leaders Charleroi by ten points. Their recent form of LLDD highlights the need for fresh impetus. You can view the complete Jupiler Pro League standings here.
What is the next fixture on the calendar?
Manager Miron Muslic could hand his new signing an immediate debut. The next league encounter is a home match against KAA Gent on Sunday, 6 September 2026. Gent currently sit third in the table, promising a tough challenge. All upcoming matches are listed on the fixtures page. Tunde Akinsola's contract with Cercle Brugge is set to run until the summer of 2030.
