Chelsea had earlier been linked with Kwara Football Academy prospect Abduljelil Kamaldeen, but the Blues are now closing in on another Flying Eagles talent…
English Premier League giants Chelsea FC are reportedly stepping up their interest in Nigerian youngsters Abduljelil Kamaldeen and Tahir Maigana, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Kwara Football Academy duo are currently representing the Flying Eagles at the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.
According to sources close to the Nigeria U20 camp, the Premier League giants have made significant moves to secure the services of the two players, who have impressed scouts with their technical quality and maturity beyond their years.
EXCL: Chelsea & West Ham set to battle for Nigeria’s U-20 wonderkid Abduljelil Kamaldeen.
– Scholarship offers on the table
– ₦43m valuation of the KFA star
– Five clubs eyeing the NigerianCC: @soccernet_ng pic.twitter.com/g90b6QSlX6
— Ayomide Oguntimehin (@ayo_oguntimehin) October 2, 2025
Chelsea & Other Clubs Eyeing Kalmadeen
Soccernet.ng understands that the Blues are in advanced talks through their academy recruitment network, with a scholarship proposal that includes welfare and educational support already on the table.
Kalmadeen's performances have caught attention of the Stamford Bridge outfits and that of West Ham, Anderlecht, and Royal Antwerp, who are monitoring his progress closely.
Speaking exclusively to Soccernet.ng, a source within KFA confirmed Chelsea’s strong interest:
“Yes, Chelsea are watching him. Their U21 scouts made inquiries during the World Cup, and we’re aware of it. The only concrete proposals at the moment are from Chelsea and Royal Antwerp. Both clubs are offering scholarship plans to support his development and education.”
Chelsea in for Maigana
Maigana, another Flying Eagles prospect, has also drawn attention from Chelsea scouts at the U20 World Cup, with the Blues viewing both players as long-term academy projects. Their ongoing performances in Chile could determine how quickly any deal progresses.
The London club appear to be leading the race to sign both players having tabled an offer per multiple reports in the Nigerian community.
If the deal goals through, it would mark a major breakthrough for Nigerian youth football since John Mikel Obi's days.
