Done Deal: Akanji Joins Lillestrom on Permanent Transfer
The Nigerian forward completes a move that was set in motion by an impressive trial performance as a 16 year old, with the Norwegian club securing an option to sign him once he came of age.
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Nigerian forward Seun Akanji has completed a permanent move to Norwegian club Lillestrom, activating an agreement that dates back to a trial spell with the club roughly a year and a half ago.
Lillestrom had secured an option to sign Akanji once he turned 18, following a trial period that first caught the club’s attention when he was just 16. Speaking to the club’s official website after putting pen to paper, Akanji said he felt at home almost immediately, describing the reception from teammates and coaching staff as warm and encouraging, and expressing pride at finally being able to call himself part of the club.
Lillestrom sports director Espen Olsen echoed that sentiment, recalling how much the young forward had stood out during his trial in January 2025. Olsen described Akanji as an explosive, exciting talent with clear long term potential, and said the club is looking forward to developing him further now that the formalities are complete.
Did You Know?
- Seun Akanji first trialled with Lillestrom in January 2025, at the age of 16.
- Lillestrom secured an option at that time to sign him permanently once he turned 18.
- Lillestrom, also known as LSK, compete in Norway’s Eliteserien, the country’s top football division.
- Espen Olsen is Lillestrom’s sporting director and oversaw the signing.
- Akanji plays as a forward and is described by the club as an explosive attacking talent.
- The move comes in the same period as several other Nigerian youth transfers to European clubs this summer, including to Zalaegerszegi TE and FC Basel.
- Norway’s top flight has become an increasingly common destination for young Nigerian talent in recent transfer windows.
