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Ibrahim Hafiz is wanted in Europe after an impressive outing with Ojodu City at the 74th Viareggio Cup in Italy.
Norwegian champions FK Bodø/Glimt are poised to sign the next Nigerian phenomenon in 18-year-old starlet Ibrahim Hafiz Umar.
Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that the talented teenager is reportedly on the verge of joining The Golden Boys from the Nigerian academy Ojodu City.
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Before he seals his move to Europe, here are five things to know about the player who could become the new Victor Boniface.
Born For Stardom in 2006
Despite his tender age, Umar has shown enormous potential that suggests a bright future lies ahead.
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He was born in 2006 in Nigeria and currently plays for Ojodu City, a football academy based in Nigeria’s financial capital, Lagos.
Top Scorer in Italy
Umar announced himself to the world by finishing as the top scorer with 10 goals at the 2024 Viareggio Cup in Italy. His record includes back-to-back hattricks.
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His eye for goal inspired Ojodu City to the semi-finals, where they fell to eventual champions and fellow Nigerians, Beyond Limits.
Wanted By European Giants
Umar's Viareggio performances at the Viareggio Cup announced his arrival to the world in Italy, sparking a scramble for his signature.
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Some of the clubs reported chasing the youngsters were Serie A leaders Inter Milan, AC Milan, Fiorentina and FC Porto all linked. Glimt look to have won the race.
Valuation Skyrockets
Thanks to his breakout tournament, Umar's value has rocketed from the low thousands in dollars.
According to the reliable transfer website, TransferMarket, Hafiz’s value has soared to a remarkable €700k. Glimt will likely have to pay big to capture this prodigious talent.
Dubbed The New Boniface
Glimt know a good Nigerian prospect when they see one. Umar is tipped to follow in Victor Boniface's footsteps and become the next Nigerian goal machine to shine in Norway.
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Boniface proved to be a hit during his time at Bodo in Norway, where he won two league titles, led the club to a credible run in the Champions League, and scored 23 goals in 66 appearances for the club.
At just 18, the sky seems the limit for Umar. Glimt will hope their scouting has unearthed another Nigerian diamond ready to light up European football.
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