New Super Eagles Invitee Sets off Transfer Battle Between Man City, Chelsea
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At a glance
- Manchester City and Chelsea have joined the race to sign 18-year-old Super Eagles invitee Zadok Yohanna, an AIK Solna winger.
- Yohanna has attracted strong interest across Europe after an outstanding season in Sweden, with Newcastle and Brighton also pursuing him.
- Brighton initially agreed personal terms and bid โฌ23 million, Newcastle offered โฌ24 million, but City and Chelsea's involvement could drive the price above โฌ25 million, potentially making him the most expensive player sold by a Swedish club.
Premier League giants Manchester City and Chelsea have entered the fray to sign Nigerian teenager Zadok Yohanna, an 18-year-old winger for Swedish club AIK Solna. Yohanna has become one of the most sought-after young African players following a breakout season in Sweden, attracting significant interest from across Europe.
The race for his signature has intensified with the entry of City and Chelsea, joining Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion, who were already leading the chase. Brighton had reportedly agreed personal terms with Yohanna and submitted an initial bid of โฌ23 million. Newcastle responded with a higher offer of โฌ24 million plus add-ons, seemingly placing them in pole position.
However, the financial power and global networks of Manchester City and Chelsea have dramatically altered the landscape. Reports suggest Chelsea has discussed a package exceeding โฌ25 million, while Manchester City is closely monitoring the situation. AIK Solna remains firm in their stance, aiming to secure the highest possible fee for the young talent.
Yohanna's rise has been meteoric. Signed less than a year ago for โฌ750,000 from Ikon Allah Football Academy in Kaduna, Nigeria, he has rapidly progressed from youth to the senior team. His performances, marked by explosive pace, direct dribbling, and one-on-one ability, have resulted in five goals and four assists in 18 senior appearances. This form earned him a call-up to the Super Eagles and attracted attention from clubs like Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayer Leverkusen. If any offer exceeds โฌ23 million, Yohanna would set a new transfer record for a player sold by a Swedish club.
Originally published by ThisDay. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.