Ibrahim Hafiz Umar: Nigerian Striker Snubs Bodø/Glimt for Chelsea Trials Despite Done Deal

• Ibrahim Hafiz Umar has chosen to trial with Chelsea instead of joining FK Bodø/Glimt
• The Nigerian striker had trialled with the Norwegians and reportedly agreed on a deal
• The teenager has begun a two-week trial at the English club's Cobham training ground

Nigerian football sensation, Ibrahim Hafiz Umar, has opted for a trial stint with Chelsea, turning down a €500k club-to-club deal with FK Bodø/Glimt.

Despite having a deal in place, Umar has reportedly set his sights on a potential future with the London club.

Umar, hailing from Ojodu City Academy in Nigeria, commenced his two-week trial at Chelsea's Cobham training ground on Monday, March 25.

His journey to the trial involved securing a visa and engaging in a video call with representatives from Chelsea, including discussions with Raheem Sterling, as reported by The Standard UK.

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Having previously trialled with Norwegian outfit Bodø/Glimt, Umar now aims to impress the coaching staff at Chelsea, under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino.

Should Umar's trial prove successful, the promising striker is anticipated to join Chelsea's affiliated club, Strasbourg, in France.

His journey to Chelsea follows his notable performance at the 74th annual Viareggio Cup in Italy, where he emerged as the tournament's top scorer despite bowing out in the semifinals. His impressive display garnered attention from European scouts.

While FK Bodø/Glimt presented a tempting offer, Umar's aspirations lie with Chelsea, with the allure of potentially following in the footsteps of his idol, Romelu Lukaku. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, Umar has drawn parallels with the Belgian's playing style.

“I like Lukaku because he fights, he’s strong, he scores, he helps his team, he does everything," he said, as quoted by SB Nation.

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Chelsea youngsters pushing for starting XI

Sports Brief listed 6 youngsters pushing to get into Chelsea's starting XI.

Mauricio Pochettino has got off to an impressive start to life as Blues manager, with two wins in as many games during their pre-season tour of the United States.

Young players impressed in the tour, leaving Pochettino with the headache of who goes on loan and who stays in the first team.