Brighton & Hove Albion have beaten Chelsea and Newcastle United to the signing of AIK teenage sensation Zadok Yohanna.
Brighton have agreed to sign the Nigerian for €30 million, according to journalist Florian Plettenberg. He has agreed a five-year deal, with an announcement of his signing expected to be made soon.
He would become the most expensive sale in the Swedish top-flight history, overtaking the €20m Tottenham Hotspur paid for Lucas Bergvall in 2024.
Yohanna’s signing represents a huge coup for Brighton, fending off stiff interest from Chelsea and Newcastle.
AIK had accepted the Blues’ and the Tynesiders’ bids for the right winger. However, he chose to join Brighton, having already reached a verbal agreement with them.
The 18-year-old joined AIK from Nigerian outfit Ikon Allah last summer, but initially played for the U19s. He became a regular this season, starting all seven of his league appearances.
He has emerged as one of the most exciting wingers in the Swedish top flight, ranking second in dribbles per 90 minutes. He has also contributed five goal involvements.
Yohanna is also renowned for his burst of acceleration and close control, making him a vibrant touchline winger.
He will have to take his game to another level at Brighton as he will contend with Yankuba Minteh for a place in the starting line-up.
Minteh started 28 Premier League games last term, chipping in with seven goal involvements.
Fabian Hurzeler’s side finished seventh in the Premier League last season, qualifying for the Europa League. They need more depth to cope with domestic and European demands.