Numerous sources, including allnigeriasoccer, have reliably reported that goalkeeper Rufai Abubakar of the Flying Eagles is attracting interest from clubs in England this summer.
The Mavlon FC goalkeeper had a minor role with the Flying Eagles during the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Egypt, where he made a short appearance of just one minute in the third-place playoff against the host nation.
Abubakar became the standout player during the shootout victory over the Young Pharaohs, successfully stopping two penalty kicks from Ahmed Kabaka and Mohamed Atef, which contributed to the Nigeria U20s securing the bronze medal.
This website contacted Mavlon FC, the Lagos-based academy, for additional information, but the club politely declined to reveal the names of the English teams that are interested in assessing Abubakar, citing the goalkeeper’s status as a minor.
Related News: Mixed Results as Club World Cup Heats Up in U.S.
FIFA’s Article 19 of the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players is designed to protect minors by generally banning international transfers of players under 18, with specific exemptions such as transfers within the EU/EEA or for players residing near national borders.
Born in 2008, the goalkeeper will not be eligible to sign a professional contract with an English club until the January transfer window of 2026.
Abubakar was part of Mavlon FC’s lineup for the 2025 Viareggio Cup in March, competing in two matches against Imolese and Red Star.
