Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town are now the frontrunners for Be Sport Academy youngster Serigne Afia Ndao after an injury stopped a planned trial at Newcastle United.
Sport Witness reported at the beginning of the month how Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Ipswich Town, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley all had their eye on the 16-year-old.
That report explained that the youngster has caught the attention of clubs in England and Europe. And that had led to him travelling to the UK for trials with Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town. The other clubs were monitoring his situation.
Be Sport Academy even confirmed youngster’s trip in an official statement.
‘Serigne Afia trained with the reserve teams of Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace, where he impressed everyone. He stood out for his quality on the ball, his height, and his physical presence,’ it read.
‘He received strong endorsements from the coaching staff of both academies, including Mark Robinson, former coach of Chelsea’s reserve team. Robinson placed Serigne Afia in the same category as Levi Colwill, Trevor Chalobah, and Ben Chilwell, whom he coached a few years ago.’
‘He is currently on the radar of Newcastle United, Wolverhampton, Burnley, Benfica, Al Qadsiah, and others.’
Crystal Palace or Ipswich Town
Now Africa Foot report information of their own on the matter. According to their information, Serigne Afia Ndao is ‘expected to sign soon’ with an English club – specifically Crystal Palace or Ipswich Town.
They report that the player ‘performed well’ during his trials at both clubs and they are now keen to secure his services.
The youngster has now returned to Senegal, where he is undergoing treatment on an unspecified injury. This injury stopped a planned trial at Newcastle, who were also monitoring developments.
“Serigne Afia Ndao has returned to Senegal following trials at Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town, where he performed very well,” a source told the website.
“He was also scheduled for a trial at Newcastle United but unfortunately sustained an injury. However, he made a strong impression at both Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town. He will continue his rehabilitation before making a decision soon.”
Be Sport Academy shining
The belief is that Ndao could soon sign his first professional contract in Europe and move to England.
That would see him follow in the footsteps of Be Sport Academy teammate Souleymane Commissaire Faye.
The attacking midfielder is currently on trial at Chelsea after being targeted by Barcelona.
For Ndao, the focus is on recovering from his injury first and foremost. Then he can turn his attention to sealing a deal with either Crystal Palace or Ipswich Town.
