Bundesliga side Hamburg are preparing to open discussions in May over a permanent move for Nigerian forward Philip Otele, with a June 15 deadline looming for the activation of his purchase option.

Otele, who joined FC Basel on loan from Hamburger SV during the winter transfer window, made an encouraging start to life in Germany, registering an assist in a 2-0 win over FC Heidenheim.

However, his form has dipped in recent weeks, culminating in a red card during the 3-1 derby defeat to Werder Bremen, as he continues to adjust to the demands of Bundesliga football.

According to German outlet Bild, Hamburg are currently weighing up whether to activate their purchase option to sign him on a permanent basis.

The Bundesliga club are expected to begin formal discussions in May, with only a few matches remaining in the season as they assess their options.

Hamburg will be aiming to reach a final agreement before the June 15 deadline for exercising the buy clause.

The agreement would reportedly cost Hamburg around €4.5 million to secure Otele permanently from Basel, in addition to a €1 million loan fee already paid as part of the initial deal.

The Bundesliga side are keen to finalise any decision before the June 15 deadline attached to the purchase clause.

Since arriving in Germany, Otele has recorded one goal and one assist in nine league appearances. 

His contributions have come amid Hamburg’s ongoing fight to maintain their Bundesliga status, with every point crucial in the closing weeks of the campaign.

Adeyemi Adewale