Cardiff City have confirmed the signing of Nigerian defender Gabriel Osho from French side AJ Auxerre on a permanent deal.
The 27-year-old centre-back has signed a four-year contract with the Bluebirds, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2029.
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The transfer fee remains undisclosed, and the move is subject to international clearance.
Osho’s return to England comes just over a year after his switch to Auxerre on July 11, 2024 was confirmed.
His stay in Ligue 1 lasted just over a year, making a total 23 matches in all competitions before making the move back to familiar territory.
The one capped Super Eagles defender has previously played for Luton Town, where he was instrumental in their promotion to the Premier League.
Now joining Cardiff City, who are competing in League One following relegation, Osho is seen as a key signing in manager Brian Barry-Murphy’s push to return the Welsh side to the Championship.
The club made the announcement on Friday, August 29, stating:
“Cardiff City FC are delighted to welcome central defender Gabriel Osho to the Club.
The 27-year-old arrives in the Welsh capital on a permanent deal from Ligue 1 outfit AJ Auxerre, signing a four-year contract with the Bluebirds for an undisclosed fee, subject to international clearance.”
Speaking to Cardiff City TV, Osho expressed his excitement about the move:
“I’m really happy, and really excited. It’s been a long time in the works, so to finally be here at the stadium and in the city has been good. I’m buzzing to get going.”
The Nigerian defender also revealed the role of manager Brian Barry-Murphy in securing his signature:
“Brian played a big part. It’s always important when the player has a good relationship with the manager. I had a really good time at Rochdale, and the connection I built with Brian and the staff there was pretty amazing. I think the relationship really was a contributing factor.”
Looking ahead, Osho hopes to settle quickly and contribute immediately:
“I’ve been watching the games so far, and the atmosphere is amazing. Hopefully I can feed off the team’s momentum, get going straight away, and just keep the wins and the clean sheets going.”
Osho is expected to link up with his new teammates immediately as Cardiff continue strengthening their squad for the season.
