Danjuma has secured his transfer

Arnaut Danjuma’s transfer to Valencia marks a new chapter in a career that has already taken the Dutch winger across several leagues and countries, with each stop adding to his experience and reputation as a dynamic, attack-minded player.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, and raised in the Netherlands, Danjuma began his football journey in PSV’s youth system before making the leap to professional football with NEC Nijmegen. His performances at NEC quickly caught the eye, combining pace, technical ability, and a willingness to take on defenders in one-on-one situations. It wasn’t long before Belgian giants Club Brugge moved to secure his services, a transfer that proved to be the first major step in his rise through European football.

In Belgium, Danjuma adapted seamlessly to the more physical and tactical demands of the Pro League. His skillset explosive acceleration, sharp dribbling, and a keen eye for goal made him a key attacking threat. Brugge’s investment paid off handsomely when they sold him to Bournemouth in 2019 for a reported €16 million, one of the more lucrative deals in their recent history.

His time at Bournemouth coincided with the club’s spell in the Premier League and later the Championship, where Danjuma emerged as a standout player despite the team’s fluctuating fortunes. His ability to score from wide positions, as well as his versatility across the front line, attracted the attention of Villarreal, who paid €23 million for him in 2021.

In Spain, Danjuma made an immediate impact. At Villarreal, he showcased his ability on the European stage, delivering decisive performances in La Liga and in UEFA competitions. Over the course of 44 matches for the Yellow Submarine, he scored 24 goals and provided 4 assists an impressive strike rate for a wide forward. His goals often came in big moments, underlining his knack for stepping up in crucial fixtures.

However, his time at Villarreal was also marked by multiple loan spells. Tottenham Hotspur brought him in during the 2022/23 season, where he added depth and flair to their attack. Everton also secured his services on loan, looking to inject pace and creativity into their forward line. Most recently, Danjuma was loaned to Girona, contributing to their strong domestic campaign.

Now, at 28, Danjuma is set for a fresh start with Valencia. While the exact transfer fee remains undisclosed, the move reflects Los Che’s ambition to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new La Liga season. Valencia, a club with a proud history but also recent challenges in maintaining top-four consistency, will be hoping Danjuma’s arrival brings both goals and excitement to the Mestalla. His ability to operate on either wing or as a second striker gives head coach Rubén Baraja tactical flexibility, something that could prove vital in a league as competitive as Spain’s top flight.

The timing of the deal means Danjuma will have the full pre-season with his new teammates, allowing him to integrate into the squad’s playing style before the campaign begins. Fans are already eyeing the season opener Valencia’s first 2025/26 La Liga match, at home against Real Sociedad on 16 August at 21:30. It’s a fixture that could serve as Danjuma’s debut and an early opportunity for him to win over the Mestalla crowd. Facing a strong opponent like Real Sociedad right out of the gate will be a test of Valencia’s readiness, and Danjuma’s presence could be decisive in breaking down a defensively solid side.

Beyond his immediate contributions, Danjuma’s arrival signals a clear statement from Valencia: they are looking to re-establish themselves as a force in La Liga, capable of competing not only for European spots but also of challenging the bigger clubs in direct encounters. For Danjuma, it’s a chance to reignite his career, take on a central role in a historic club, and perhaps write one of the most exciting chapters of his football journey yet.