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Chelsea Step Up Pursuit of Nigerian Starlets Abduljelil Kamaldeen and Tahir Maigana
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Chelsea have intensified their pursuit of two exciting Nigerian prospects, Abduljelil Kamaldeen and Tahir Maigana, both of whom are currently shining for Nigeria at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
According to information obtained by SportsBoom, the Blues have already made formal offers for the teenage sensations and are believed to be leading the race ahead of several European clubs, including West Ham United.
Both players are products of the Kwara Football Academy (KFA) in Nigeria, whose Director of Media and Communication confirmed Chelsea’s approach, describing the interest as “very serious.”
“Chelsea’s offer is very professional and includes a detailed welfare and education package,” the KFA official told SportsBoom. “They’ve held multiple discussions with the players’ representatives in the last week.”
While Chelsea appear to be in pole position, West Ham United have also shown strong interest, particularly in Kamaldeen. Sources say the Hammers have been tracking the midfielder closely, but Chelsea’s Under-21 coach reportedly spoke personally with the player, giving the London giants an edge in negotiations.
Elsewhere in Europe, Belgian clubs Anderlecht and Westerlo have made enquiries about Kamaldeen, while Italian Serie A side Atalanta are monitoring Maigana’s progress.
Both players, who share the same agency, have impressed scouts with their composure and maturity in midfield. Their standout displays have helped Nigeria reach the Round of 16, where they are set to face Argentina in the knockout stage.
Any final deal is expected to hinge on the Flying Eagles’ progress in Chile. Chelsea are said to be closely monitoring their performances before finalizing terms.
Should the move go through, Kamaldeen and Maigana could become the latest additions to Chelsea’s growing contingent of African talents — part of the club’s long-term youth recruitment strategy.
