Rangers, Tottenham Join Leverkusen in Race for Nigeria U20 Star

Two new European suitors Rangers and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly entered the race to sign Nigeria U20 forward Sani Suleiman, increasing the competition around his signature.

This interest comes after earlier reports that Bayer Leverkusen had been closely monitoring Suleiman, following his breakout performances at AS Trencin and during youth tournaments.  Tottenham are said to have made formal enquiries, while Rangers have also shown serious interest.

Suleiman featured prominently for the Flying Eagles during the U20 World Cup, where he started two group stage matches before missing the round of 16 against Argentina due to suspension. Before moving to Trencin in summer 2024, he enjoyed a prolific spell at Akwa United, scoring 11 goals in 19 league appearances after leaving Wikki Tourists.

This season, Suleiman has continued in fine form, contributing to four goal involvements in six matches across competitions.  His current contract with Trencin runs another year, with the club holding an option for extension through 2027–2028.

Editorial

We see the burgeoning interest in Sani Suleiman from elite clubs such as Tottenham and Rangers as a positive indication that Nigerian youth prospects are emerging into serious assets on the European stage. His consistent performances at club and national youth levels justify the attention and it is a signal that talent from Nigeria is no longer passing unnoticed.

Suleiman’s path is instructive. From scoring freely at Akwa United to adapting to the rigours of European football in Slovakia, he has shown both goal‑scoring instincts and adaptability. The next move must be strategic, not just opportunistic. He needs a club that will give him minutes, support his development, and not simply block his trajectory in the name of prestige.

For Nigerian football stakeholders, this moment demands that we prepare better frameworks for transfers, mentorship and career planning. We must avoid situations where young stars are lured to big clubs without a clear path to success, only to stagnate on the bench. Representation, counsel, and negotiation must match the ambition.

If Suleiman chooses wisely, he can become a case study in how Nigerian talent can transition smoothly to top European stages. That would encourage more scouts to track our youth, invest in academies, and trust the pipeline. Let this be more than a headline chase it must become a blueprint for progress.

Did You Know?

1. Sani Suleiman’s move to AS Trencin made him one of the relatively few Nigerians playing in the Slovak league system.
2. Rangers’ interest in African youth stars has grown in recent years, as the club looks to supplement its roster with emerging talent.
3. Tottenham have historically scouted in Africa, having signed players like Sonny Cox and others from the continent in recent years.
4. Suleiman’s 11 goals in 19 matches for Akwa United made him one of the highest scoring domestic players before his move abroad.
5. AS Trencin’s option to extend his contract through 2027–2028 gives them leverage, but could also make negotiations with suitors more complex.