Nigerian Midfielder Joins Waasland

Belgian side, Waasland-Beveren has signed Nigeria international midfielder Reuben Gabriel for an undisclosed fee.

His decision comes despite the prospect of an offer from English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur.

He had been training with Spurs and had begun discussions to join them and then be loaned immediately.

“I’m pleased and excited with this move,” the 23-year-old told Tidesports source about his switch to Waasland-Beveren on a one-and-a-half-year deal.

“This club and league is a good platform for me to develop my football further.

“It’s a positive step in my career and I want to give my best to the club and fans.”

Gabriel is a free agent after terminating his contract at Kilmarnock following a series of disputes with the Scottish Premier League club.

The Belgian offer was too good to turn down, according to the player’s agent Tony Harris.

“We had to pull him out of the arranged Spurs training abruptly because the offer from Belgium was interesting and presented a great opportunity for Gabriel in many ways,” Harris told our source

“Everything was, however, done in a professional and amicable way and Tottenham will have first refusal on the player.”

Gabriel, who is greatly admired by Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi, is keen to play for his country at this summer’s World Cup in Brazil.

The versatile midfielder has made 10 appearances and scored once for the Super Eagles.