Nigerian International Oladapo Afolayan Joins Blackburn Rovers on a Permanent Deal Until 2027.
Blackburn Rovers have confirmed the permanent signing of Nigerian forward Oladapo Afolayan from German side St. Pauli. The 28-year-old attacker joins the Championship club on a contract running until June 2027, for an undisclosed fee.
Afolayan returns to English football three years after leaving Bolton Wanderers for St. Pauli. Blackburn described him as a dynamic and direct attacker who brings energy, entertainment, and an eye for goal to Ewood Park.
Afolayan is a product of the Chelsea and West Ham United academies and has played extensively across the Football League. His senior career includes stints at Solihull Moors, Oldham Athletic, Mansfield Town, Barnet, and Tooting & Mitcham United, as well as a spell in Canada with Toronto FC.
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In Germany, he made 93 appearances for St. Pauli across all competitions, 86 in the league, scoring 16 goals and providing seven assists over three seasons.
Born in London, Afolayan has committed his international future to Nigeria, having previously earned a cap for England’s C team. He had hoped for a call-up for the 2025 Unity Cup and has visited the Super Eagles camp in London to meet players and coaching staff.
At Blackburn, Afolayan will join fellow Nigerian right-back Ryan Alebiosu, beginning a new chapter in his career in English football.
