Report: Chelsea open talks to sign 16-year-old Nigerian midfielder

Abduljelil Kamaldeen

English Premier League side Chelsea have begun talks to sign Flying Eagles midfielder Abduljelil Kamaldeen, Soccernet.ng reports. 

Discussions are now underway between the English club and Kamaldeen’s representatives.

Per Footy-Africa, the 16-year-old recently impressed during a trial period, which has prompted Chelsea to show concrete interest in securing his signature.

The Blues are understood to have followed up with an official approach as they explore a possible deal for the highly rated youngster.

Talks over a potential transfer are ongoing, with Kwara Football Academy (KFA) hopeful of reaching an agreement with the Premier League side.

Soccer Chelsea submit offer after a trial success

According to sources close to the negotiations, Kamaldeen’s performances during his assessment with Chelsea convinced the club to formalise their interest. An offer has now been submitted as discussions continue over the structure of the move.

Given the player’s age, the proposed arrangement is expected to focus on his long-term development rather than an immediate professional contract, in line with regulations governing the international transfer of minors.

Soccer KFA previously dismissed Anderlecht’s claims

The latest development follows earlier reports linking Kamaldeen with Belgian giants RSC Anderlecht, claims that were firmly denied by Kwara Football Academy to Soccernet.ng.

At the time, a KFA official confirmed that the midfielder remained in Nigeria and revealed that Chelsea were already in talks with his representatives. Other clubs, including West Ham United and Royal Antwerp, were also credited with interest.

KFA have maintained that any move for Kamaldeen will prioritise both his education and football development as negotiations with Chelsea continue.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng. He has interviewed Super Eagles stars like William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Ademola Lookman, and is known for breaking major transfer stories.

Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, and Milan News24. He holds a Master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X (formerly Twitter): @ayo_oguntimehin