Yusuf Abdullahi, one of the breakout stars of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2024/25 season, is attracting strong interest from clubs both within Nigeria and across Europe following a string of standout performances.
The 18-year-old forward first captured national attention when he scored five goals in a single away match for Kano Pillars against Gombe United last December. Since then, Abdullahi has continued to impress, recently concluding a loan spell at Plateau United, where his final-day strike sealed a 1–0 win against Enyimba in Aba — a result that further bolstered his rising stock.
With the new season approaching, multiple NPFL clubs, including Wikki Tourists, Nasarawa United, and Enyimba are reportedly in pursuit of the pacy forward, alongside Plateau United, who are keen to retain his services after a productive loan stint.
Abdullahi’s performances have also caught the attention of clubs beyond Nigeria. Turkish side Manisa FK monitored his progress last season, and fresh interest is believed to have emerged from another Turkish outfit. Additionally, two European clubs — one from Central Europe and another from an undisclosed country — are understood to be weighing up potential moves.
FIFA-licensed agent Hayatudeen Bello Hayatudeen, who is part of Abdullahi’s management team, confirmed that talks are ongoing but insisted the player’s future will be guided by developmental goals rather than immediate financial reward.
“Yusuf’s progress has been phenomenal,” Hayatudeen told The Guardian. “His pace, composure, and instinct in front of goal make him one of the most promising forwards in Nigerian football today. While it is true that several clubs have made enquiries, we are assessing all the options carefully to ensure he ends up in the right environment.”
Despite mounting interest, Abdullahi’s camp has signalled that they are in no rush to make a move, favouring a long-term strategy aimed at consolidating his growth trajectory, both technically and mentally.
As the transfer window gathers pace, all eyes remain on the future of a player many see as one of the brightest young attacking prospects to emerge from the domestic league in recent years.