EFL Championship side Sheffield United have completed the signing of promising Nigerian winger Ehije Ukaki as their first move in the summer transfer window, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 20-year-old joins from Bulgarian side Botev Plovdiv, becoming the second player to arrive at Bramall Lane from the club, following Christian Nwachukwu's January switch.
Ukaki was identified through Sheffield United’s data-driven recruitment model, which uses artificial intelligence to scout and assess emerging talent across Europe.
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Though he has mainly featured as an advanced wide player, there's growing belief among observers that Ukaki's long-term role could be as a right wing-back, particularly in a back-three system that manager Chris Wilder has regularly employed.
“Ehije is a player who has been identified through our data-driven strategy and is someone we’re looking forward to developing. He’s an emerging talent, still only 20, who has enjoyed some experience of European football early in his career, so there’s a base to work from.” Speaking after the announcement, Wilder said, as cited by Sheffunitedway.
The Blades had defeated Bristol City in the semi-finals, but it was Sunderland—who overcame Coventry City—who triumphed in the final and will now join Leeds United and Burnley in England’s top flight next season.
