Premier League giants Chelsea have once again turned their attention to the Nigerian talent pool as they search for young prospects to bolster their youth system, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
Barely a year after pursuing Hafiz Umar who came close to joining the club before financial complications halted the deal, Chelsea have now set their sights on another promising youngster, Abduljelil Kamaldeen.
Kamaldeen, 16, featured in Nigeria’s squad at the last FIFA U-20 World Cup. Although he saw limited minutes, his performances were impressive enough to catch the eye of Chelsea and several other European clubs.
Early reports suggested interest from Bodø/Glimt, West Ham, and Chelsea.
However, Ibrahim Bako, Director of the Kwara Football Academy, where Kamaldeen currently plays, clarified that only Chelsea have made a concrete move.
“We have had a few inquiries about the boy (Kamaldeen) but only Chelsea have put forward something for him. They are the only team I can confirm has been in touch as regards Abduljelil (Kamaldeen),” Bako exclusively told Footy-Africa.
Chelsea, West Ham, Anderlecht: Top clubs battling for Flying Eagles’ Kamaldeen
“Whatever we are going to do, we will do it in the best interest of the boy to aid his development, which is always key to what we do here at Kwara Football Academy. It is about growth, development, and comfort for our players. That is our main objective, and we will do the same with him as we discuss with Chelsea,” he added.
Asked what kind of player Kamaldeen is, Bako described the teenager as a technically gifted midfielder with a sharp eye for creativity.
“He is really developing at a good pace, as you saw at the FIFA U20 World Cup. He is a number ‘8’, an attacking midfielder who loves to carry the ball and create chances for himself and his teammates. There are elements of his game that need improvement, but he is willing to learn and will be a great player if he stays humble and continues to work hard. I am sure of that,” Bako concluded.
Chelsea are reportedly working on a scholarship deal for Abduljelil Kamaldeen as they hope to bring the young talent to Stamford Bridge.
If it works out, he will join the likes of Emmanuel Sarki, John Obi Mikel who joined the youth ranks of Chelsea before the latter went on to make the first team.
