Nigerian forward Jonathan Okoronkwo has completed a return to Russian football after joining Torpedo Moscow from Turkish side Sivasspor. The Russian First League club confirmed the signing of the 22-year-old attacker on a three-year contract that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2029.
The transfer marks a new chapter for Okoronkwo, who returns to a country where he previously enjoyed some of the best moments of his young career.
Torpedo Moscow will be hoping the Nigerian can provide the goals needed to strengthen their push for promotion after securing one of the most prolific forwards to play in the Russian second tier in recent years.
Familiar territory for the Nigerian striker
Okoronkwo is no stranger to Russian football.
Before moving to Turkey, the striker spent time with Krasnodar and Arsenal Tula, where he built a reputation as a dangerous attacking player capable of troubling defenders with his pace, movement and finishing ability.
His most productive spell came during the 2023-24 season when he emerged as the top scorer in the Russian First League.
The Nigerian netted 17 goals and added four assists in 32 matches, finishing the campaign as one of the division’s standout performers and attracting interest from clubs outside Russia.
That form eventually earned him a move to Turkish football, where he continued his development before deciding to return to a league where he had previously enjoyed considerable success.
Reunion with familiar coach
One factor that may have influenced the move is the presence of Torpedo Moscow manager Aleksandr Storozhuk.
The coach previously worked with Okoronkwo during their time together at Krasnodar and Arsenal Tula, giving him a detailed understanding of the striker’s strengths and qualities.
That existing relationship could help the Nigerian settle quickly and make an immediate impact.
Torpedo officials believe the striker’s knowledge of Russian football and his previous success in the country will reduce the adaptation period that many foreign signings often require.
Following in Eguavoen’s footsteps
The move also creates an interesting Nigerian connection.
Former Super Eagles captain and coach Augustine Eguavoen represented Torpedo Moscow during the late 1990s and remains one of the most recognisable Nigerians to have played for the club.
