Transfer Update: Nigerian Starlet Joins Southampton On Loan

Transfer Update: Nigerian Starlet Joins Southampton On Loan

Sampson Adedeji

Nigerian youngster Ashanti Akpan has completed a loan move to Southampton Women from Chelsea, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The 19-year-old midfielder links up with the Saints after developing through Chelsea’s academy system and gaining valuable experience in the Women’s Championship last season.

Akpan, who joined Chelsea at the age of seven, enjoyed a decorated youth career, winning both the FA Youth Cup and the WSL Academy Cup before making her senior debut for the Blues in March 2023.

She signed her first professional contract in December that same year.

To further her development, she spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Birmingham City, making 15 appearances in all competitions as the club narrowly missed out on Women’s Super League promotion.

Although capped by England at the youth level, Akpan remains eligible to represent Nigeria at senior international football.