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Frank Lampard overseeing the Premier League clash between Watford and Everton. Photo credit: xAndyxRowlandximago
As Coventry City intensifies their push for Premier League promotion, manager Frank Lampard is actively seeking to reinforce his squad, with Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka emerging as a prime target, according to Scoccernet.ng.
The 28-year-old Brentford midfielder, who showcased impressive performances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, has openly expressed his ambition to eventually join Manchester United, adding an intriguing dimension to his potential transfer.
Reports indicate that Coventry City is engaged in advanced negotiations with Brentford regarding Onyeka’s transfer, exploring both loan and permanent deal possibilities.
Coventry City Emerges as Front-Runners for Onyeka
According to Sky Sports News, Coventry City currently leads the race to sign Onyeka, outpacing Championship competitors Birmingham City and Sheffield United. Earlier in the transfer window, Spanish outfit Valencia also initiated contact with Brentford regarding the midfielder.
With just over 15 months remaining on his Brentford contract, Onyeka’s availability before the transfer deadline appears feasible, making him an attractive acquisition for clubs aiming to strengthen their midfield options.
Onyeka’s consistent displays in four of Nigeria’s six AFCON fixtures, including the semi-final defeat to Morocco, have heightened interest from clubs seeking a dynamic and robust midfielder.
Frank Onyeka’s Aspiration to Join Manchester United
Despite not registering goals, Onyeka was a pivotal figure for Nigeria at AFCON, demonstrating exceptional control in midfield and disrupting opposing plays-qualities that have attracted attention from European clubs.
Adding to the narrative, Onyeka has candidly revealed his dream of playing for Manchester United in the future.
“Absolutely, I want to play for Manchester United,” Onyeka confirmed when responding to a fan’s query, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
Can we get Onyeka released, please? @BrentfordFC pic.twitter.com/KNVxkf96Xo
– Tom P (@TomPurchase6) January 11, 2026
While a transfer to Old Trafford remains a long-term ambition, clubs like Coventry are eager to capitalize on the opportunity to sign Onyeka now, enhancing their promotion prospects.
Frank Lampard’s Vision for Championship Success
Acquiring Onyeka would signal Coventry City’s serious intent to extend their three-point lead atop the Championship table and secure automatic promotion.
The former Chelsea midfielder turned manager values Onyeka’s physicality and international pedigree, qualities that could prove vital in Coventry’s quest for Premier League football.
In the coming days, attention will focus on Brentford’s stance and whether Onyeka will transition to the English Championship to continue his impressive AFCON form at club level.
