Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion have announced the signing of Nigerian footballer Zadok Yohanna on a long-term contract from Swedish club AIK Stockholm.

In a statement on Saturday, the club confirmed that the 18-year-old signed a five-year contract deal, which will keep him at Brighton until at least 2031. 

The deal is subject to regulatory approval. 

“Brighton & Hove Albion have agreed the signing of winger Zadok Yohanna from AIK Stockholm on a five-year contract until June 2031 for undisclosed terms.

“Zadok will complete his move to the club when the transfer window reopens, and it will be subject to the usual regulatory approvals,” Brighton said. 

Brighton reportedly paid £21.5 million to secure the service of Yohanna, beating competition from Chelsea and Newcastle United. 

One year ago, Yohanna was playing non-league football with Ikon Allah Academy before securing a move to AIK Stockholm, where he has developed into one of the world’s best young prospects. 

“The 18-year-old Nigerian, who turns 19 later this month, will join us having established himself as one of the most exciting prospects in Europe, after making a big impact in Sweden’s top division this season,” the club added. 

Commenting on the acquisition, Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler said he was pleased with the addition of Yohanna and added that the player would be a crucial member of the team. 

“I’m looking forward to working with Zadok. Having seen his games and his attributes, he is a player that can impact games in the final third,” Mr Hurzeler said. 

He added, “He’s still young and will need time to adapt to the club and Premier League, but he’s an exciting player to watch, and he brings the kind of creativity we know our fans will enjoy. 

“He’s dynamic, has pace and likes to take players on. His attributes and ability will be a real addition to our attacking options.”