RB Leipzig Secures Talented Nigerian Forward Suleiman Sani

RB Leipzig has officially announced the signing of Nigerian youth international Suleiman Sani. According to Kicker, the German club has paid a base transfer fee of €5 million to acquire the young talent from Slovakian team AS Trencin, with additional performance-related bonuses amounting to €1 million included in the agreement.

Sani represents Leipzig’s first addition during the January 2025 transfer window. The 19-year-old has demonstrated promising performance in the Slovak first division this season, netting three goals and providing two assists.

Despite his achievements, details about the teenage player remain sparse. Kicker and other German football publications even vary in the spelling of his name, with some sources referring to the three-time capped Nigerian U20 international as “Suleman Sane.”

RB Leipzig’s sporting director, Marcel Schäfer, has elaborated on Sani’s skill set in a club statement, emphasizing the player’s potential as a long-term investment for the team. “In Suleiman Sani, we have signed a highly talented young winger,” Schäfer remarked. “He has an exciting profile and possesses all the attributes necessary for his development at RB Leipzig. Mainly operating on the left flank, he combines great pace with physicality, making him difficult to dispossess. Additionally, he shows a commendable work ethic defensively and maintains the right attitude on the pitch.”

“By securing him on a permanent basis, Suleiman gives us a head start for next summer,” Schäfer added. “His arrival will enhance our versatility on the wings, and we are committed to allowing him the time he needs to acclimatize to the Bundesliga. We eagerly anticipate working with him.”

Sani himself expressed enthusiasm regarding the move, stating, “Joining RB Leipzig is a significant step for me, and I am very proud. I am particularly impressed by the club’s commitment to nurturing young players, as well as the trust and targeted development they provide. I look forward to learning daily in this highly professional environment, furthering my development, and contributing to the team. The style of football here aligns well with my strengths.”