EPL: Brighton sign Nigerian youngster Yohanna on five-year deal

Brighton & Hove Albion has secured the signing of highly-rated Nigerian forward Zadok Yohanna from Swedish side AIK Stockholm. The English Premier League club announced the transfer on Saturday, confirming the 18-year-old winger has agreed to a five-year contract that will keep him at the club until June 2031.

Yohanna's move to Brighton follows a rapid ascent in European football. He joined AIK Stockholm in 2025 from Ikon Allah Academy in Kaduna, Nigeria. Within two months, his impressive performances earned him promotion from the youth ranks to the senior team. Reports suggest that several other top Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester City, and Newcastle United, had shown interest in the teenager before Brighton finalized the deal.

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Brighton & Hove Albion have agreed to the signing of Zadok Yohanna from AIK Stockholm on a five-year contract until June 2031 for undisclosed terms.

Reflecting on his journey, Yohanna expressed his delight at joining the Premier League side. "I am very happy to join this club because I know where I came from," he stated. "I really wanted to make my family proud. And I have done that." The winger is considered one of Nigeria's most promising young talents and has reportedly caught the attention of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.

Yohanna's transfer to Brighton marks another significant milestone in his career, progressing from grassroots football in Nigeria to one of Europe's most competitive leagues. He is expected to benefit from Brighton's renowned youth development system as he aims to establish himself in the Premier League and compete for a spot in the Nigerian national team.

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I am very happy to join this club because I know where I came from. I really wanted to make my family proud. And I have done that.