Nigerian Viareggio Cup prodigy set for Chelsea trials

Published on by Godfred Budu

Budding Nigerian forward Hafiz Umar Ibrahim is set to undergo trials at Premier League side Chelsea in the coming days after arriving in London.

The 18-year-old will begin a two-week trial at Cobham on Monday. Ibrahim, hailing from Kano, plays for the amateur side Ojodu City Football Club in his native Nigeria.

The young Nigerian forward in February made waves at the 2024 Viareggio Cup, having scored 10 goals in the tournament, including two hat-tricks against USA's Westchester United and the Hungarian club Honved.

He attracted a lot of interest from European clubs, including clubs such as Fiorentina and Sassuolo, as well as Portuguese sides FC Porto and FC Braga, AC Milan, and Inter Milan.

Before Chelsea: Bodo/Glimt's disrupted move for Hafiz Ibrahim

Hafiz Ibrahim was close to joining Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt before news of Chelsea's interest surfaced. As such, the young Nigerian has rejected a move to Bodo/Glimt, opting to try his luck with Chelsea instead.

“I like Lukaku because he fights, he’s strong, he scores, he helps his team; he does everything,” Ibrahim told the press in a recent interview.

If he passes the Chelsea trial, the club will sign him and then loan him out to their partner club, Strasbourg, in the French Ligue 1.

If Chelsea opts not to sign him, the Nigerian player won't lack offers, as numerous clubs in Spain are lurking around him.

How much is Hafiz Ibrahim worth?

Ibrahim's current market worth is estimated to range between €500,000 and €700,000. This assessment mirrors the increasing acknowledgment of his talents and prospects within the football sphere.

As interest from multiple clubs escalates, Hafiz Ibrahim's market valuation underscores his bright future in the sport.

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Godfred Budu

Godfred Budu, a Ghanaian sports journalist, brings a dynamic perspective to the field with over a decade of experience. Having contributed to esteemed platforms such as Kickgh.com and Inkandkicks.com. Godfred is recognised for his insightful commentary and in-depth analysis of African football.
His passion for storytelling and commitment to accuracy have established him as a trusted authority in sports journalism in Ghana, captivating audiences with his engaging narratives and unparalleled expertise.
Godfred holds a degree in Integrated Development Studies (Social and Development Administration option) from the University for Development Studies, Ghana.