Osuji cleared for Tromso’s Conference League tie with Brighton

Former Nigeria Under-17 defender Vince Osuji has been cleared to play for Tromso in their UEFA Europa Conference League play-off match against Brighton and Hove Albion. The 20-year-old Nigerian completed the registration requirements ahead of the fixture and can now be selected by the Norwegian club.

Osuji’s availability had been uncertain after his move to Tromso, with his residence permit still to be completed. Tromso confirmed that the permit process is finished, meaning the defender is eligible for the upcoming Conference League matches against Brighton.

The transfer takes Osuji to Norway after an 18-month spell with Belgian top-flight club Club Brugge. He joined Brugge from Swedish side Kalmar in January 2024 but did not make a senior league appearance for the Belgian team.

His move to Tromso has been structured on a long-term basis, with the defender signing a contract running until the summer of 2030. The initial transfer cost was close to nominal, while Brugge will be entitled to a small payment linked to his appearances.

The agreement also gives Club Brugge 15 per cent of the net profit from any future sale of Osuji. That arrangement leaves Tromso with the player for the long term while allowing his former club to benefit if he later moves on for a profit.

Osuji’s clearance gives him the opportunity to begin his Tromso career in a major European fixture. Brighton and Hove Albion are the opposition in the play-off tie, and the Nigerian defender is now available for consideration after completing the administrative steps required for his new club.