Brighton & Hove Albion have completed the signing of 18-year-old Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna from Swedish club AIK Stockholm. The deal, reportedly worth £21.5 million, is one of the highest fees ever paid for a teenager from Africa.
Yohanna, born in Bauchi State, developed his talent at Ikon Allah Football Academy in Kaduna before moving to AIK in 2025. He made an immediate impact in Sweden, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 18 appearances this season. His performances attracted interest from Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Borussia Dortmund.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler praised Yohanna’s pace and creativity. "He’s dynamic, has pace and likes to take players on," Hurzeler said. "His attributes will strengthen our attacking options." The club confirmed the five-year contract will run until June 2031, subject to regulatory approval.
Yohanna’s emotional reaction to the move went viral. Videos show him breaking down in tears during a call to his family after signing. "I want to make my family proud," he said. "I know where I came from." The deal also sets a new record for the highest fee received by a Swedish club.
Brighton’s sporting director highlighted the club’s commitment to developing young talent. Yohanna’s arrival follows a pattern of signing promising players and integrating them into the Premier League. Fans will watch closely to see if he can replicate his Swedish form in England.
