The Albanian club FK Partizani Tirana has announced the signing of Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) top-notch player Kazeem Ogunleye, from Rangers International FC. The NPFL defending champions confirmed the departure of their playmaker on a permanent deal after reportedly receiving $40,000 (N60 Million) from the Albanian Superliga side.
Joining Blessing Eleke and being the second Nigerian player at Partizani, Ogunleye signed a four-year contract for his team after successfully passing medical. His movement aimed at paving the way for future collaborations between the two clubs.
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Taking to their X/Twitter handle, Rangers wrote: “Rangers International FC can confirm the transfer of Kazeem Ogunleye to Albanian top-flight club FK Partizani on a beneficial deal for the club.”
“This move not only provides valuable returns for Rangers but also paves the way for future opportunities,” the club added in its statement.
The arrival of the 18-year-old clinical midfielder at Tirana is expected to boost the Red Bulls’ struggles during the ongoing Albanian domestic campaigns and their European competitions.
A journey to Discovery
Kazeem Ogunleye’s outstanding performance caught the attention of Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu during a Nigeria National League (NNL) pre-season tournament between Ijebu United and Plateau United.
The former Plateau United Boss immediately secured the move of the young talented midfielder from Ijebu United. The dramatic 96-minutes-winner against Enyimba was the only goal the new signing could deliver to the club during his debut season (2022/23).
The 2023/24 season saw Ogunleye move together with his coach to Rangers International FC where his 15 goals contributions (seven goals and six assists) led the club to the NPFL title victory. Five of his goals were scored directly from a penalty kick while the remaining two were clinical finishes outside the box.
The Nigerian youngster received numerous individual accolades in that season including Enugu Rangers Best Player of the Year.
The beginning of the NPFL 2024/25 season saw the Rangers forward witnessing a progressive stage in his career as he answered his debut call-up to the national team when home-based Super Eagles squad secured a victory against Ghana in Uyo.
Then Rangers confirmed the departure of the 18-year-old midfielder to Albanian top-flight side FK Partizani on 4 March 2024.
In his farewell statement, Ogunleye said: “Today, I say goodbye to a magnificent club Enugu Rangers. Also, I want to thank the club for helping me become a better footballer. Thanks to Enugu Rangers…”
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