Footy-Africa can exclusively report that German side Hannover 96 have emerged as the frontrunners to sign highly-rated Nigerian winger Angelo Agbejoye, leapfrogging Premier League giants Manchester City in the race for the teenager’s signature.
A source close to the player informed Footy-Africa that while City have long been admirers of the winger, their recent “foot-dragging” has allowed the German club to take pole position.
Hannover’s interest is described as “firm and serious,” with the 2. Bundesliga side eager to wrap up a deal for the Grassrunner FC prodigy.
Manchester City connection
Agbejoye is a name already familiar to the hierarchy at the Etihad Stadium. The Nigerian U20 international spent time at Manchester City last year on an initial trial.
Sources indicate that the English champions were “extremely impressed” with his technical ability and raw pace.
However, his stay in Manchester was prematurely cut short due to an unfortunate bout of sickness, which forced him to return to Nigeria to recover. Despite this setback, Pep Guardiola’s scouting team has maintained a high opinion of the winger, and there were internal discussions about bringing him back for a second look this year.
Wow! Just Wow! 🔥
Brilliant take-on with a stunning finish from Grassrunner FC player against Remo Stars in the friendly game.
Thunderous strike by the young gun.
Pure Talent. 🔥⚽️💪 pic.twitter.com/HQ39CHYU3R
— Olaiya Azeez Lawal (@OlaiyaAzeezLaw1) January 10, 2026
Hannover steals a march
While City remains a prestigious option, the lack of a concrete move in recent weeks has opened the door for Hannover. The German club, known for its development of young talents, has moved decisively.
“Hannover are now the favorites,” the source revealed. “They aren’t just watching; they have shown they want him now. City really like him and rate him highly, but they have been slow to move to the next stage. Hannover’s intent is much more direct.”
Nigerian forward Angelo Agbejoye set for Manchester City trial return
The ‘X-Factor’ winger
Agbejoye has been a standout performer for Grassrunner in the Nigerian domestic scene and has featured for the Flying Eagles (Nigeria U-20s).
Known for his “X-factor” pace and a lethal left foot, he typically operates on the right flank, cutting inside to devastating effect—a profile that mirrors many of the modern game’s elite wide men.
What’s next
As it stands, a final decision on Agbejoye’s future is expected to be reached in the Summer transfer window. While the allure of the Premier League and Manchester City remains, the promise of a clearer pathway to first-team football in Germany could see the Nigerian starlet head to the Heinz von Heiden Arena instead.
For now, Hannover holds the cards, and unless Manchester City accelerates their pursuit, one of Nigeria’s brightest young exports looks destined for the Bundesliga.
