Newcastle United are rivalling Brighton in a £20 million battle for AIK's highly-rated flying winger Zadok Yohanna. Brighton have already made an opening offer for the 18-year-old, and Newcastle are now discussing figures with the Swedish club.
Yohanna, who only joined AIK from the Ikon Allah academy in Nigeria last summer, has also been tracked by Chelsea and Tottenham this season. Real Madrid, Rennes, RB Leipzig, and Borussia Dortmund have also sent staff to watch Yohanna, a left-footed winger who plays on the right. During April's clash with Kalmar FF, there were 32 scouts at the game, all credited with interest in the teenager.
Yohanna was called up to represent Nigeria last month, but AIK blocked him from joining the national camp for the Unity Cup, saying he needed to fully recover from an injury. He has only played in seven league games, scoring twice and adding two assists. However, his potential was evident in Swedish Cup games earlier in the year, and his talent has prompted clubs to press for his signature.
Inevitably, on Sunday, AIK, who are listed on the stock market, confirmed that they had opened negotiations to sell. Brighton, with their knack of unearthing gems, have jumped to the front of the queue, and there is confidence a deal will be concluded. Yohanna has drawn attention for his speed and technical ability, with coach Jose Riveira hailing his ability in one-on-one situations. AIK is looking for a club and Swedish top flight record sale of around £22 million. Newcastle are also assessing Osasuna winger Victor Munoz.
