The Nigeria Football Federation are closely monitoring highly-rated Dundalk forward Gbemi Arubi, but face competition from the Football Association of Ireland for his international allegiance.
Born in Dublin, Arubi is eligible to represent the Super Eagles through his Nigerian parents.
However, the FAI were the first to move to secure his international future, having previously named him in a squad for two friendlies against Iceland U19s in June 2022.
Although he has not featured for Ireland in recent years, it is understood that the FAI have revived their interest in the forward following his impressive performances for League of Ireland Premier Division giants Dundalk.
The 21-year-old holds a Nigerian passport and he’s open to representing the three-time African champions, despite Ireland’s efforts to bring him back into their setup.
Arubi is widely regarded as a quick, powerful and two-footed attacker who both creates and scores goals, and has been likened to Manchester City’s Ghana international Antoine Semenyo.
This season, the Shelbourne academy graduate has registered five goals and three assists in 19 appearances across all competitions, further underlining his growing reputation.
He is also attracting interest from several European clubs, including teams in Belgium, ahead of the summer transfer window.
