The reported overseas move of home-based Super Eagles midfielder Afeez Aremu threatens to rule him out of the 2018 African Nations Championship set for Morocco in January.
While the influential box-to-box operator was included in Salisu Yusuf's squad for the upcoming Super Six, he would not be eligible for the tournament for home-based players next month if he completes a move abroad.
In this feature, KweséESPN profile three potential candidates to replace the 18-year-old, who shone with Akwa United this season.
Dare Ojo (Enyimba): Despite his consistent performances over the past three seasons in the league, has failed to earn a call-up to the home-based Super Eagles and was not included in Yusuf's Super Six squad.
The hardworking and versatile midfielder, who is also capable of playing as a right back, could be an effective addition to the midfield, while his technical and physical qualities could make him an ideal partner for Ifeanyi Ifeanyi.
Ojo can also chip in with long-range goals, while his CAF Champions League experience with Enyimba could serve him well.
Samuel Mathias (El-Kanemi Warriors): There is a bit of debate surrounding the best position for Mathias, who is viewed as an attacking midfielder due to his high turnover of goals.
The former Flying Eagles player was one of the standout performers in the 2016/17 Nigeria Professional Football League, contributing 12 goals for El-Kanemi Warriors, but has found it hard to break into the home-based Eagles' starting XI.
He didn't make his mark when handed a start at the WAFU Nations Cup, but his ability to time his off-the-ball runs to perfection while effectively covering his territory makes him a credible candidate to start in midfield.
However, having been snubbed for the Super Six squad, he represents an outsider for the CHAN squad.
Raphael Ayagwa (Lobi Stars): The tall, lanky, technically gifted defensive midfielder isn't the same kind of players as Aremu, but is disciplined, tidy, and knows how to screen the back four effectively.
He would certainly complement a more adventurous midfield partner, and having been named in Yusuf's squad for the NPFL Invitational, looks on course for a spot in the CHAN squad.
Despite being a part of the side that secured qualification to the African Nations Championship with victory over Benin, Ayagwa was dropped for the WAFU Nations Cup in Ghana, and must make the most of his recall.