Exclusive: Middlesbrough Make Move for AS Trenčín Sensation Sani Suleiman

Middlesbrough have joined a growing list of clubs showing interest in Nigerian youngster Sani Suleiman, SportsBoom understands.

The 19-year-old forward, who plays for Slovakian side AS Trenčín, has been attracting attention across Europe following a series of impressive performances this season.

Premier League and European Interest

Suleiman has already been monitored by several Premier League clubs, with Chelsea, Tottenham and Brentford previously linked with the player.

Interest also extends beyond England. Former Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, Scottish side Rangers and Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven have all made enquiries as they track the teenager’s development.

Middlesbrough Make Contact

Sources revealed to SportsBoom that Middlesbrough are the latest club to enter the race. 

Representatives of the Championship side made contact with AS Trenčín last Thursday as they assess a potential January move.

The source suggests Trenčín had initially planned to offer Suleiman a new contract but are now prepared to sell when the transfer window opens.

The Slovakian club are keeping the player’s likely destination under wraps as negotiations continue.

Suleiman joined AS Trenčín from Nigerian club Akwa United just over a year ago and has quickly emerged as one of the team’s standout performers.

He first rose to prominence at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, where, despite Nigeria’s exit in the last 16 at the hands of Argentina, he was widely regarded as one of the tournament’s most consistent players.

The forward’s growing reputation has now placed him firmly on the radar of several major European clubs ahead of the January window.

Middlesbrough are also bracing for a fierce January fight to keep hold of star midfielder Hayden Hackney, with former boss Rob Edwards pushing hard for Wolverhampton Wanderers to make a move and any bid expected to exceed £35 million.