N1.1bn-rated Nigerian teen Hafiz catches eye of 6 European giants after goal exploits in Italy

Ibrahim Hafiz is the Viareggio Cup top scorer with 9 goals. (Photo Credit: Ojodu City/X)

N1.1bn-rated Nigerian teen Hafiz catches eye of 6 European giants after goal exploits in Italy

Izuchukwu Akawor 07:02 - 25.02.2024

Nigeria's Ibrahim Hafiz netted 10 goals in six matches for Ojodu City at the Viareggio Cup in Italy.

Teenage striker Ibrahim Hafiz has emerged as a transfer target for several clubs in Europe after a successful outing at the Viareggio Cup with his modest club Ojodu City in Italy.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that Hafiz has ended his journey at the Viareggio Cup as the top scorer with 10 goals, even as his club Ojodu City fell short of reaching the final after a 2-1 semi-final loss to fellow Nigerians Beyond Limits.

Hafiz wanted in Europe

The attacking sensation found the net in every match he played, underlining his reputation as one of Africa's most lethal young finishers. Hafiz struck an impressive nine times, including back-to-back hattricks en route to the semis.

Valued at around $700,000, Hafiz has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for several elite European teams on the back of his dazzling displays at the prestigious Italian tournament.

Back-to-back hattrick hero, Ibrahim Hafiz celebrates with his teammates. (Photo Credit: Ojodu City/IG)

Leading the chase for the imperiously talented Nigerian teen are Serie A giants, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Fiorentina, who also witnessed Hafiz’s impressive ability as a striker first-hand at the Viareggio competition.

Other clubs that have reportedly shown interest in the Nigerian wonderkid are Portuguese giants, FC Porto, and Dutch champions, Feyenoord per a post from youth football enthusiast, Bolaji Bale. 

Ogundare (number 8) celebrates with his teammates. (Photo Credit: Beyond Limits/X)

While Ojodu's giant-killing run came to an end in the semis, Hafiz leaves having left a mark as a future star. His astonishing haul of 10 goals in just six matches reinforced his credentials and earned attention from abroad.

Even though Ojodu fell short of glory, Hafiz's brilliance looks set to pave the way for a potential career-making move to some of the continent's biggest clubs. 

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