Nigeria U-20 forward Ahmed Abdullahi is on the verge of leaving Sunderland, with Turkish Super Lig side Eyupspor in advanced talks to sign the striker, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The 22-year-old's omission from Sunderland's senior squad for their 5-1 pre-season victory over York City has intensified speculation over his future. Instead of travelling with Régis Le Bris' first team, Abdullahi featured for the club's Under-21 side against South Shields.
According to the Sunderland Echo, negotiations between Sunderland and Eyupspor are progressing, although the two clubs are yet to reach a final agreement.
Abdullahi joined the Black Cats from Belgian outfit Gent in August 2024 on a four-year contract but has endured an injury-hit spell that has prevented him from making his competitive debut for the former English champions.
Before his move to England, the former Flying Eagles striker was regarded as one of Nigeria's brightest young attacking talents. He represented the national U-20 team at the 2023 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations and attracted interest from European giants Borussia Dortmund and Olympique Marseille before eventually signing for Gent.
With Brian Brobbey, Wilson Isidor and several other forwards ahead of him in Sunderland's attacking hierarchy, first-team opportunities have remained limited under Le Bris.
Despite his struggles to break into the senior squad, Abdullahi has impressed at youth level, scoring six goals in seven appearances for Sunderland's Under-21 side. However, the club are reportedly willing to approve a transfer that would allow the striker to gain regular first-team football.
Eyupspor are said to view the Nigerian as a long-term investment and are optimistic of completing the deal in the coming days.
A move to Turkey could provide Abdullahi with the consistent playing time he has been seeking since leaving Belgium and potentially strengthen his chances of earning future Super Eagles consideration as head coach Eric Chelle continues to monitor emerging attacking talents ahead of the upcoming international window.