Newly-promoted English Premier League side Leeds United have completed the signing of Noah Okafor from AC Milan in a deal worth up to £18 million.
Okafor, 25, has signed a four-year deal until 2029 and becomes the club’s ninth signing of the summer, taking Premier League clubs summer expenditure to a record £2.37 billion.
The Switzerland forward spent last season on loan at Italian Serie A champions Napoli and leaves the country after an underwhelming spell.
Speaking after signing his contract at Leeds United on Friday, Okafor expressed excitement at the opportunity to play in the league of his dreams.
“I think it’s an amazing day, I’m really excited. As a kid, I dreamed of playing in the Premier League. That’s why for me it was quite an easy decision”, Okafor revealed.
“My football suits the Premier League, this is like a dream come true. I can’t wait to step on the field.
I heard that the Premier League is the best league in the world, it’s so intense, I have loads of friends that played there or are playing there”, he added.
“I’m really, really excited. I can’t wait, like I said before. I’m also ready for this new challenge.”
Okafor’s signing means English Premier League clubs have now set a new record for the highest amount spent in a single transfer window, eclipsing the £2.36 billion spent in the summer of 2023.
The 25-year-old previously played for Basel and Salzburg before making the switch to AC Milan where he scored seven times in 54 appearances.
“I know Brenden Aaronson, he’s a friend of mine. I used to play with him in Salzburg a couple of years ago and I also know Isaac Schmidt, he’s from Switzerland. And Lukas Nmecha, I know a little bit. For the other guys, I’m excited to get to know them better”, the Swiss forward continued.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
