Ikorodu City youngster Aderemi Adeoye is reportedly edging closer to a transfer to English Championship side Middlesbrough as the club continues to assess him ahead of the new season.

The highly-rated midfielder is currently in England, where he is taking part in a trial period with the Riverside outfit. A successful evaluation could pave the way for the 19-year-old to secure his first move to European football.

Although his current market valuation is relatively modest, Ikorodu City are expected to negotiate a higher fee before agreeing to release one of their brightest talents.

The Lagos-based club views Adeoye as an important asset after his impressive performances in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Since arriving at Ikorodu City earlier this year, the defensive midfielder has developed into one of the team’s standout players.

His composure in midfield, ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute possession effectively have earned him widespread praise.

Adeoye’s rapid progress also caught the attention of the national team selectors, leading to his inclusion in Nigeria’s squad for the Unity Cup invitational tournament.

He featured twice as a substitute, gaining valuable experience alongside established Super Eagles stars.

Should the transfer materialise, Adeoye would become the latest Nigerian footballer to wear the Middlesbrough colours, joining a list that includes Yakubu Aiyegbeni, John Obi Mikel, Kenneth Omeruo and Kelechi Iheanacho.

A switch to Middlesbrough would represent another positive step for the Nigeria Premier Football League, which continues to produce talented youngsters capable of attracting interest from clubs across Europe.