Highly-rated Nigerian youngster Seun Akanji has completed a move to Norwegian club Lillestrøm SK, marking an important milestone in his young career.
The former Sporting Lagos winger has already settled into life in Norway and taken part in his first training sessions with the club.
Although he cannot yet feature in official matches, Akanji will continue training and adapting to his new environment while awaiting eligibility to complete his registration.
Akanji Impresses During Trial in Norway
Lillestrøm identified Akanji as one of Nigeria’s standout young talents during a scouting tournament held in the country before inviting him to Norway for further assessment.
The teenager quickly impressed the coaching staff, featuring in two pre-season friendlies and training alongside the senior squad.
His performances convinced the Norwegian club to reach an agreement with Sporting Lagos.
Due to FIFA regulations governing international transfers involving players under the age of 18, Lillestrøm secured an option on the winger.
Akanji is expected to officially register with the club after celebrating his 18th birthday in the summer of 2026.
Speaking after completing the move, the youngster shared his excitement.
“I’m incredibly happy to be here. Signing for a fantastic club like this means a lot to me. This is a big dream come true, and I’m ready to give everything I have for the club.”
Nigerian Presence Continues to Grow at Lillestrøm
Akanji becomes the latest Nigerian prospect to join Lillestrøm’s first-team environment, strengthening the club’s growing connection with Nigerian football.
He will link up with compatriots Kparobo Arierhi, who joined from Beyond Limits Academy in February 2025, and defender Tochukwu Ogboji, who arrived from Giant Brillars FC during the same transfer window.
Lillestrøm Sporting Director Simon Mesfin revealed that several clubs across Scandinavia and Europe were tracking Akanji before the Norwegian side secured his signature.
Mesfin added that the deal follows a similar strategy used to sign Arierhi, allowing the club to identify and secure one of Nigeria’s brightest emerging talents before he becomes eligible to sign a professional contract.