Ex-Southampton FC player found dead 'under suspicious circumstances' | OneFootball

He spent seven months at the club and played for Saints' under-21s.

Former Southampton academy player Victor Udoh has died at the age of 21, according to The Mirror.

The publication adds that the forward's death has occurred under suspicious circumstances, although the cause remains unknown.

Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad has provided further details on the Nigerian's passing, stating that he was found dead in Abuja, the capital of his home country.

The Saints signed Udoh from Belgian outfit Royal Antwerp in February 2025 on a three-and-a-half-year contract, with the forward joining the under-21 squad.

During his time on the South Coast, he made appearances for the club in the Premier League 2 as well as the Premier League Cup and National League Cup, scoring twice in eight appearances.

Udoh never made a senior appearance for Southampton before his contract was mutually terminated in September, before he eventually signed for Czech outfit SK Dynamo České Budějovice a month later.

Southampton and Royal Antwerp share statements on Udoh's passing

While Udoh only spent seven months at St Mary's, he clearly left a mark on the club, as they have now released an official statement on his passing.

"Southampton Football Club is devastated by the tragic passing of our former player Victor Udoh at the age of 21," the statement read.

"Victor spent seven months with our Under-21 squad, from February to September 2025, and was a hugely popular figure with his teammates and staff at Staplewood.

"A talented winger, Victor made 28 senior appearances for Belgian side Royal Antwerp before helping Saints reach the Premier League 2 play-off final in 2024/25.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Victor’s loved ones at this extremely difficult time."

The Saints are not the only ones to have released a statement, as Udoh's former club, Royal Antwerp, has also responded to the news of his death.

"Our thoughts are with Victor's family, friends, and loved ones," the statement read.

"We wish them much strength, support, and warmth during this particularly difficult time. Rest in peace, Victor."

During his time at Royal Antwerp, Udoh scored 12 times in 21 matches for the Young Reds before he made 28 appearances for the first team, assisting twice before moving to Southampton.

In the 2025-25 season for SK Dynamo České Budějovice, he scored twice in three appearances, making an immediate impact before his passing.

Sadly, we will never see him fulfil his potential as the football world waits for further details on his death.