STARS IN EUROPE - NIGERIA - CLUB - William Troost-Ekong joins Gent

K.A.A. Gent

Nigeria international defender William Troost-Ekong has joined Belgian champions Gent.

The 21-year-old, who was a youth player with Tottenham, moves from Dutch club FC Groningen and has agreed a three-year contract.

However, he will spend the first year on loan at Norway's FK Haugesund.

"I'm very happy to have signed with the Belgian champions. 

I took my time deciding on my next best step," Troost-Ekong told BBC Sport.

"I thank Gent for this great opportunity, and I look forward to joining the club at the end of my loan."

The Super Eagle rejected a big-money offer from Russian club Rostov, and he also turned down interest from Spanish second-tier club SD Ponferradina and an English Championship side.

He added: "I spoke with the Nigeria coach, Sunday Oliseh, and the emphasis was for me to ensure that I am playing regular top-flight football even if that meant seeking a loan move.

"I'm thankful for his advice, and together with what I and my management had in mind, this was the best option.

"Going to Norway gives me an opportunity to play regularly and continue my progress."

Troost-Ekong, who made his debut for Nigeria in a match against Chad on 13 June, represented the Netherlands at youth level before switching allegiance to his father's country.