Newcastle lead race to sign Zadok Yohanna for one reason

Newcastle United have emerged as favourites to sign Nigerian youngster Zadok Yohanna from AIK this summer, despite growing interest from several top European sides, Soccernet.ng reports.

Yohanna has emerged as one of the most sought-after youngsters in the transfer market in recent weeks, attracting attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including several Premier League sides.

The 18-year-old has made a strong impression at AIK, producing five goals and four assists in 12 appearances across all competitions in 2026 and his rise has been very remarkable considering he only joined the Swedish club in 2025 from Ikon Allah Academy in Nigeria.

While Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, RB Leipzig and Rennes have all held long-standing interest in the forward, multiple Premier League clubs have recently entered the race.

The Magpies have assured Yohanna that he is part of their long-term plans and will be integrated immediately into the first-team squad to get regular Premier League minutes.

Swedish forward Anthony Elanga has struggled to fully settle since his arrival last summer, while Jacob Murphy’s contract expires next summer, and the club may consider moving him on to recover a fee. This would create an opening in Yohanna’s preferred position on the right wing, giving him a strong chance to establish himself if he takes his opportunity.

Meanwhile, the Magpies have also allowed Anthony Gordon to leave for Barcelona, which also frees up space in the opposite flank for Yohanna to come in. He would also be allowed to develop alongside several other young talents at the club, including the likes of Lewis Hall, Lewis Miley and William Osula, who has been approached by the NFF regarding a possible switch of international allegiance.

In contrast, Yohanna may find playing time harder to come by at other Premier League clubs. Manchester City are reportedly planning to send him out on loan to develop further, while Chelsea could also place him at sister club Strasbourg to gain experience.

Zadok Yohanna: Nigeria’s next rising star

Few would have predicted how quickly Zadok Yohanna has made an impact since joining AIK from Ikon Allah Academy in 2025, and he now looks set for a move to one of Europe’s top leagues after just a year in Sweden.

The 18-year-old’s confidence on the ball and productivity make him stand out and he is now on course to join the growing list of Nigerian players in the Premier League.

Yohanna received a maiden call-up to the Super Eagles for the Unity Cup triumph in May, but AIK blocked his participation as he was recovering from injury at the time, although it is only a matter of time before he receives another invitation from Eric Chelle.

A final decision on his future is expected to be made in the coming days and the youngster will be careful to choose a club that will assure him of regular playing time in order to continue his development.