Flying Eagles shot-stopper to be assessed by English clubs ahead of potential transfer

Allnigeriasoccer.com can report with certainty that Flying Eagles goalkeeper Rufai Abubakar is attracting interest from English clubs this summer. 

The Mavlon FC shot-stopper played a peripheral role for the Flying Eagles at the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Egypt, making a brief one-minute appearance in the third-place playoff against the host nation.

Abubakar was the hero of the shootout win over the Young Pharaohs, saving two spot kicks from Ahmed Kabaka and Mohamed Atef as the Nigeria U20s secured the bronze medal.

This website contacted Lagos-based academy Mavlon FC for details, but the club politely declined to reveal the identities of the English clubs set to assess Abubakar, citing the goalkeeper's status as a minor.

Article 19 of Fifa's Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players is designed to protect minors by generally prohibiting international transfers of players under 18, with limited exceptions such as those within the EU/EEA or for players residing near national borders.

The 2008-born goalkeeper is not eligible to sign a professional contract with an English club until the January transfer window in 2026.

Abubakar was part of Mavlon FC's travelling squad to the 2025 Viareggio Cup in March, featuring in two matches against Imolese and Red Star.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com