Finnish club Seinäjoen Jalkapallokerho have announced the signing of 19-year-old Nigerian striker Chinedu Umeh, who joins the side from Atlantic Business FC with the ambition of developing his game and ultimately playing in the UEFA Champions League, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Umeh, a right-footed forward known for his pace and sharpness in the final third, has already featured for both the first and second teams at the SJK Academy.

“Umeh is an ambitious player with high goals, a man that wants to play for in the Champions League. He is now working for this goal at SJK Academy,” the club said in a statement on Friday.

His journey to Finland began in Lagos, Nigeria, where he starred for Atlantic Business, scoring 65 goals in 120 appearances across various local competitions including the National League One, the Youth League, and the Creative Championship.

Now with SJK, Umeh says he is ready to take the next step in his career.

“This is a good club, the team and coaching are great, and everyone is working hard both on and off the pitch. We’ve been evolving all the time. I’m really happy with how things work here, and I’m willing to give my best here too,” he said.

The Nigerian forward has quickly settled into his new environment and praised the club’s infrastructure and culture.

“The country is good, you know, and the team is a nice team,” he explained.

“Their development structure is very good and their facilities are top notch. It’s one of the best in the country. As a young player, you can develop yourself here if you want to work hard.”

Umeh also expressed appreciation for the warm welcome he has received at the club. “I’ve made a lot of friends here. Everyone has welcomed me; they’re really good,” he said.

While embracing the present, Umeh is firmly focused on the future. “I’m just working on myself for now. I’m using this opportunity to improve. Here is just a starting point for me. I have my dreams,” he said.