Shalom Ekong: Swedish-Nigerian striker joins GIF Sundsvall on loan from GAIS

Swedish-Nigerian forward Shalom Ekong has joined GIF Sundsvall on loan from Allsvenskan side GAIS as the Superettan club strengthen their attacking options for the remainder of the campaign.

The 22-year-old centre-forward, who stands at 1.90m and plays predominantly with his right foot, moves to Sundsvall in a loan transfer agreed on 15 July 2026. His contract with the Norrland club runs until 30 November 2026, when he is scheduled to return to GAIS at the end of the deal.

Ekong arrives having featured in the Allsvenskan for GAIS, where he made eight league appearances and scored once in the 2026 season. Despite limited minutes, he registered his goal at an average of 157 minutes per strike, underlining his impact when involved.

Born in Reggio Emilia in Italy, Ekong represents both Sweden and Nigeria at national level in terms of eligibility and has built his senior career across several countries. Before joining GAIS in August 2025, he played in Sweden with IFK Stocksund following a spell at Al-Nasr. Earlier in his career he developed in Italy with Empoli’s youth teams.

GIF Sundsvall will look to harness his height and presence through the middle as they navigate the Superettan season, with Ekong offering a different profile at centre-forward to the existing options in the squad.

Ekong’s temporary switch to Sundsvall, with his return to GAIS scheduled for the end of November, is now fully confirmed.