Nigeria U-17 world cup winner Lukman Zakari says he would have made more money in salary and others if he had agreed on a move to Europe but opted for Sfaxien of Tunisia for the sake of his career.
He was reportedly heavily courted by Boavista, Rio Ave and Sporting Braga all of Portugal and he rejected a late bid from French side Monaco before agreeing a five year deal with Sfaxien.
In his words he would have earned more had he choose any of the above mentioned option but instead opted for Sfaxien as he believe he has more chances of realising his dream with the Tunisians.
Despite his revelation that he snubbed more money on offer in Europe his deal with Sfaxien is reportedly one of the richest for a foreign teenager in an African team.
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“I had offers to move to Europe before I signed with Sfaxien but after meeting with the club president and the first team coach, I choose to sign for them as for now it is the best for my career” He told owngoalnigeria.com.
“Yes, I would have made more money if I had move to Europe but my career first before cash am so happy to be here and I just want to grow and fulfill my potentials”.
Zakari also quashed reports that he was forced to sign for the Tunisian outfit by his parents and representatives of the club.
” Forced (laughs)? nothing close to that happened, I only hanged on to ensure all parties involved are satisfied with the terms of the deal, both my club and agent as it’s not about only me”.
The Unity Academy product also praised the reception he received from the other two Nigerians at the club, Junior Ajayi and Kingsley Sokari.
“They made me feel very much at home, they were lively during dinner and we chatted in pidgin English which made it more fun as the most people around us didn’t understand what we were saying”.