Nigeria’s Lanre Awesu signs first professional contract with West Ham after impressive rise

West Ham United have announced that 17-year-old goalkeeper, Olanrewaju Mubarak Awesu, simplified as Lanre Awesu, has signed his first professional contract with the club.

The talented shot stopper, who boasts Nigerian heritage, joined the Hammers’ Academy as a schoolboy in the U14 age group and has since enjoyed a remarkable rise through the ranks.

Having signed his scholarship last summer, Awesu’s first year as a full-time footballer has seen him progress significantly, including representing England at the junior international level.

Awesu’s breakthrough season has been filled with significant achievements. He started in nearly every one of the U18s’ Premier League Cup fixtures, helping the team reach the final for the first time.

His performances were so impressive that he was even called up to train with the first team, showing the confidence West Ham have in his potential.

This season also marks the young goalkeeper’s involvement in England’s U17s national squad, with his participation in every camp showcasing his rapid development.

Before settling in goal, Awesu’s football journey began as a centre-forward. The tallest in his age group, he initially wore the No. 9 shirt and was known for holding the ball up front for his team.

However, in secondary school, he made the transition to goalkeeper after a game in which he stood between the posts for the first time.

Awesu quickly fell in love with the role, finding joy in diving for saves and being part of the action in a way he had never experienced before.

Reflecting on his rise, he admitted that five years ago, he never imagined being on the verge of a professional career with West Ham.

“If somebody told me five years ago that I’d be sitting here, I wouldn’t have believed them, to be honest,” he said.

Awesu’s journey to the Academy began while he was studying at Harris City Academy, where his impressive performances for local club AFC Nasaa caught the eye of Norwich City.

Though he did not sign with the Canaries after a 12-week trial, his talent continued to shine, and he earned a subsequent eight-week trial at West Ham.

He eventually signed for the club’s U14 team and has been developing his skills at Chadwell Heath ever since.

This season has also seen Awesu share goalkeeping duties with teammate Finley Hooper, adding healthy competition to the No.1 spot.