Sheffield United have announced the signing of Nigerian winger Ehije Ukaki from Botev Plovdiv, marking their first move of the summer transfer window.
The 20-year-old arrives from the Bulgarian First League and signs a long-term deal with the Blades, subject to international clearance.
Blades Turn to AI Model to Uncover Nigerian Prospect
Ukaki becomes the latest player recruited through Sheffield United’s AI-led scouting system, powered by the club’s ownership group, COH Sports. He follows in the footsteps of January arrivals Jefferson Cáceres and Christian Nwachukwu, both of whom were similarly identified via data-driven analysis but have yet to make an impact at Bramall Lane.
Ukaki made 37 appearances in all competitions for Botev Plovdiv last season, scoring seven goals, including a memorable winner against local rivals Lokomotiv Plovdiv. The move to South Yorkshire marks a significant step up for the Nigerian winger, who previously played for Vista Academy before moving to Bulgaria in January 2024.
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder welcomed the club’s latest addition:
“Ehije is a player who has been identified through our data-driven strategy and is someone we’re looking forward to developing. He’s an emerging talent, still only 20, who has enjoyed some experience of European football early in his career, so there’s a base to work from.”
Ukaki’s signing is viewed as a long-term investment rather than an immediate first-team solution. With United back in the Championship after relegation from the Premier League, the focus appears to be on building a younger, more sustainable squad that can develop under Wilder’s guidance.
Despite the minimal first-team involvement for previous AI-derived signings, the club’s hierarchy remains committed to integrating global talent through a combination of analytics and traditional scouting insight. Ukaki’s profile—quick, direct, and with a solid goal return for his age—fits the mould of a winger with resale potential and developmental upside.
Writer’s View
Ehije Ukaki’s arrival is another example of Sheffield United’s evolving recruitment model under COH Sports. While AI-assisted signings haven’t yet broken through at Bramall Lane, Ukaki looks a more complete package than his predecessors. His experience in a competitive European league and early productivity at just 20 years old are encouraging signs.
That said, Blades fans will want to see substance alongside strategy, especially after a difficult Premier League campaign. If Ukaki can hit the ground running in England, even in a loan spell, this could prove a shrewd piece of business.
