Shalom Ekong: Sweden-Nigeria striker joins GIF Sundsvall on loan from GAIS

Sweden-Nigeria forward Shalom Ekong has joined GIF Sundsvall on loan from Allsvenskan side GAIS, strengthening the Superettan club’s attacking options for the current campaign.

The 22-year-old centre-forward swaps top-flight football for regular minutes in the second tier, with the loan move formally completed on 15 July 2026. His deal with Sundsvall runs until 30 November 2026, when he is scheduled to return to GAIS at the end of the temporary spell.

Ekong, who stands at 1.90m and plays primarily through the middle, heads north after a stint with GAIS in which he featured in Sweden’s top division. This move offers him the chance to gain further experience and playing time in a division where Sundsvall are looking to climb the table.

Born in Reggio Emilia, Ekong represents both Swedish and Nigerian nationality and rose through youth systems in Italy and Sweden before breaking into senior football. He previously spent time at Empoli’s youth ranks, progressing from their under-18s to under-19s before moving into the senior game.

After leaving Empoli, Ekong had spells with Al-Nasr and IFK Stocksund before transferring to GAIS in August 2025. His performances have seen his market value rise to around €100,000, underlining his status as a developing attacking option within the Swedish game.

Ekong’s temporary switch means he will spend the remainder of the 2026 season with GIF Sundsvall, with his loan due to conclude at the end of November.