Brighton Beat Newcastle in Bidding War for Nigerian Wonderkid
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
Zadok Yohanna Handed Five-Year Contract at the Amex
Brighton & Hove Albion have completed their first signing of the summer by securing the signature of Nigerian wonderkid Zadok Yohanna from Swedish Allsvenskan outfit AIK Stockholm in a deal worth £21.5m. Check out our football predictions.
The teenage sensation was linked with moves to several big clubs across Europe, including Newcastle United and RB Leipzig, but the Seagulls came out on top in the bidding war, locking the youngster down to a five-year contract at the American Express Stadium.
Yohanna joined the Swedish outfit from Ikon Allah Football Academy and made his debut for the team in August 2025. He had a breakthrough season last year, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 18 appearances across all competitions.
Brighton reportedly believes that the youngster is one of the most exciting talents in European football. Fabian Hurzeler also expressed his excitement over the signing, highlighting Yohanna’s attacking prowess. He said in an interview with the media:
“I’m looking forward to working with Zadok. Having seen his games and his attributes, he is a player that can impact games in the final third.”
The Seagulls have a reputation for signing young, promising players and selling them for huge profits, and many, including the owner of Ikon Allah Football Academy, Ali Mohammed, feel that Yohanna could one day command a future transfer fee in excess of £150m.
Yohanna Expected to Make Super Eagles Debut this Year
In addition to expectations that he will be one of the brightest talents in the Premier League in 2026-27, Yohanna is also expected to shine for the Nigerian national team alongside the likes of established stars Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman.
The 18-year-old was called up for his Super Eagles debut for the 2026 Unity Cup at The Valley last month, but it is understood that AIK blocked his release, citing rehabilitation concerns and his importance to the team’s objectives for next season.
Eric Chelle explained in an interview that Yohanna’s inability to join the squad for the Unity Cup was a major disappointment. However, the teenager’s move to Brighton will offer him the opportunity to continue his development in one of the most competitive leagues, which is a major advantage for him and the Super Eagles.
