Former Nasarawa United center back Tebo Franklin has secured a high-profile switch from Sarpsborg 08 to Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade, Footynaija.com reports.
The 25-year-old, who spent two years at Nasarawa United and made 37 appearances for the NPFL club, has been on the radar of the Belgrade giants for months, and an agreement has finally been struck.
Red Star, known locally as Crvena Zvezda, saw their opening bid knocked back earlier in the summer after Sarpsborg deemed it below the defender’s market value.
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However, the Serbian champions returned with a vastly improved offer, reportedly worth €2.5 million upfront, plus a package of bonuses and performance-related add-ons.
Tebo, who joined Sarpsborg in 2023, had been a defensive rock in the Eliteserien. Calm under pressure and commanding in duels, the Nigeria international earned plaudits for his reading of the game and aerial strength.
His consistency made him one of Sarpsborg’s most reliable performers, and his departure will leave a notable void in their back line.
For Tebo, this move represents a major step up. Red Star are on the brink of securing a spot in the Champions League league phase, offering him the chance to test himself against some of Europe’s elite and potentially claim domestic silverware.
While Sarpsborg will undoubtedly miss the Nigerian, the transfer fee will significantly boost their summer earnings. This deal underlines the Norwegian side’s growing reputation for developing talent and cashing in smartly on their assets.
Tebo’s new employers will offer him a four-year contract, and he could feature in Red Star’s upcoming UEFA Champions League qualification match against Pafos at the Marakana.
The towering defender has one appearance in the national team colours, having made his debut for the Super Eagles in a friendly match against Mexico back in 2021.
