Photo: Chelsea target Hafiz Umar Ibrahim joins Stade Reims

Nigerian young talent Hafiz Umar Ibrahim has officially signed with French Ligue 1 side Stade Reims from Ojodu City Football Club, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Kano-born forward first gained attention earlier this year at the Viareggio Cup in Italy, where he scored ten goals in the youth tournament, catching the eye of several top clubs, including Chelsea and Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt.

Chelsea’s interest was particularly strong, with their scouting director Joe Shields and star forward Raheem Sterling personally reaching out to Hafiz while he was en route to Norway, according to Soccernet.ng’s managing editor, Lolade Adewuyi.

Hafiz spent nearly two months on trial in West London, alternating between Chelsea’s first team and U19 squad. As his trial period drew to a close, he delivered an impressive hat trick in front of club owner Todd Boehly, prompting a decision to keep him at the club.

However, despite the promising signs, negotiations with Chelsea fell through, and Hafiz's move to the Premier League side did not materialize. His future became uncertain as his name faded from the media.

In recent times, Hafiz, a 6ft 2in forward who models his game after Romelu Lukaku, has secured a four-year contract with Stade Reims. He will begin his journey with the club’s B team, with expectations to progress to the main squad over time.