Chelsea & Anderlecht in Tug-of-War over Young Star Abduljelil Kamaldeen

Kwara Football Academy (KFA) has refuted claims that Flying Eagles midfielder Abduljelil Kamaldeen has sealed a move to Belgian side RSC Anderlecht. The 16 year old remains in Nigeria, according to the academy’s media officer, though Chelsea are said to be in active discussions with his representatives.

The interest in Kamaldeen comes after eye-catching performances for Nigeria’s U-20s. Chelsea, West Ham, Royal Antwerp, and Anderlecht are reportedly among the clubs monitoring the young midfielder. Offers on the table are scholarship proposals, rather than professional contracts, since he is still a minor.

KFA has emphasised that any agreement must support Kamaldeen’s overall development both educationally and athletically.

Editorial

We must recognise that Kamaldeen’s situation is about much more than just transfer rumours. It highlights how critical it is for young football talents to receive holistic support, not just from clubs but from the entire ecosystem around them.

It is encouraging that scholarship arrangements are being considered rather than rushing into professional contracts. These ensure the teenager’s education and welfare are not sacrificed for immediate gains. We believe this approach sets a better precedent for how academies and top clubs should handle minors.

Yet mixed messages from media speculation threaten to detract from the athlete’s focus. We need more consistency and transparency in how transfers of young players are reported. Releasing accurate information protects the player from undue pressure and misinformation, and it preserves trust in football governance.

Clubs like Chelsea, Anderlecht, and others tracking Kamaldeen have a responsibility that goes beyond securing talent. They must provide structured environments where players can grow not only in skill but in maturity. Education, mental health support, and gradual exposure to higher competition are essential if we want players to fulfil their potential without burnout or undue exploitation.

We believe Nigerian academies too must insist on agreements that protect their players, ensuring any deal does not expose the young athlete to risk. Until all parties view development and welfare as equally important to on-pitch performance, we will continue to see talented young players lose out.

Kamaldeen deserves the opportunity to thrive. If handled with care, his journey could become a model showing how young Nigerian stars can succeed abroad, not by chance but through thoughtful systems and ethical practices.

Did You Know?

1. Abduljelil Kamaldeen was one of the youngest players in the Flying Eagles squad at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
2. He scored in a 4-1 win over Benin Republic during the WAFU Zone B U-20 Championship.
3. His market valuation has been reported to be around ₦43 million (~£25,000) by his agent, despite being only 16.
4. Kamaldeen has drawn comparisons to Nigerian legend Jay-Jay Okocha due to his creativity and flair in midfield and the way he influences play.
5. Because of his age, the interested clubs are considering scholarship deals, which allow him to combine education and football development until he becomes eligible for a full professional contract.