Nigerian defender Khalifa Imam is on trial with Czech side FK Teplice, who are considering signing him, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
Football scout Abu Ali, who is in Burkina Faso for the WAFU B U17 Boys Tournament, believes Iman could become one of the best young talents Nigeria has produced in recent times.
“He was one of the boys selected during a recent trip to Nigeria and I am happy he has now gotten the chance to show them what he can do,” Ali said. “I rate Iman personally because I also saw him in action during the training camp and showcase, so I am not surprised he was picked.”
“The boy is quite young, so I understand why they want to see him at close quarters in another trial, but personally I would have signed him to a long-term deal if I had the choice.”
“I hope he can do well there and get signed. He has the talent and also the desire for someone of his age. I am looking forward to seeing what he can do, but they are not the only club that showed interest in him during the scouting programme. I pray he gets a deal. He is a good player and a fantastic talent,” he added.
The 17-year-old caught the eye of scouts at a training camp in Nigeria, which Teplice attended alongside other clubs during a recent visit to the country. After discussions, the club invited him over, and he is now training with the U19s while they run the rule over him.
Iman is a ball-playing defender who can also operate as a defensive midfielder. He has good height and passes the ball well, and he has already made a good impression with the U19s.
With other clubs also interested after the scouting programme, Iman’s time with the U19s could decide where his career starts.
