Oshoala gets new 3-year deal with Barcelona — in absentia

Asisat Oshoala has agreed to a three-year deal with Spanish female side, Barcelona Ladies — in absentia. 

The contract was concluded by Oshoala, Barcelona Ladies and Dalian Quajian, her former Chinese club, while the Nigerian star was away in Austria, preparing for the 2019 Women’s World Cup.

The Super Falcons forward initially joined Barca on a six-month loan from Dalian Quanjian in January, but will now continue with Barca on a permanent contract.

“Asisat Oshoala and FC Barcelona are to sign a new contract that ties the player to the Catalan club until 30 June 2022, following the agreement for the Nigerian international to be transferred to the club from Chinese side Dalian Quanjian,” the statement said.

“The 24-year-old striker came to Barça last January 31 on what was originally a loan move.

“In her four months here, Oshoala has played in eleven competitive fixtures and returned eight goals, including what will always be the team’s first ever goal in a Champions League Final, although it wasn’t enough to bring the trophy back from Budapest.

“Voted African Women’s Footballer of the Year three times, she is currently away with her national team preparing for the World Cup in France, where the Super Falcons share a tough group with the host nation, Norway and South Korea.

“For that reason, she is unable to put pen to paper right now, but will be doing so as soon as her schedule permits.”

The 24-year old scored eight goals including the club’s solitary goal against Olympique Lyon 4-1 loss in the final of the UEFA Women’s Champions League in Budapest earlier in May.

Oshoala is one of the players expected to shine at the 2018 FIFA Women’s World Cup which kicks off on June 7 in France.