Yohanna set for Brighton pre-season

Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna is poised to join Brighton and Hove Albion's first-team squad for pre-season training on July 15. The Premier League club has decided against loaning out the teenager for the upcoming campaign, indicating confidence in his immediate contribution.

The 19-year-old's transfer from Swedish club AIK to Brighton was a record-breaking deal, with the Seagulls paying €30 million for his signature, making it the most expensive outgoing transfer from Sweden. Since his move, Yohanna has been based in England, undergoing personal training, including sessions with Brighton veteran Danny Welbeck.

Yohanna, who joined AIK from Ikon Allah Football Academy in Kaduna less than a year before his move to England, signed a five-year contract at the Amex Stadium. He recently celebrated his 19th birthday at the club's training facilities. Reflecting on his rapid ascent, Yohanna expressed his determination to make his family proud, highlighting his journey from Nigeria.

Regarded as one of Nigeria's most promising young talents, Yohanna was previously invited to the Unity Cup in London but could not attend due to his ongoing transfer process and a minor injury. With the Premier League fixture list released, Yohanna is in line to potentially make his top-flight debut on Sunday, August 23, when Brighton hosts Aston Villa at the Amex Stadium, as he prepares for integration into the first-team squad.

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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.