Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Akol Akon has attracted seven-figure offers from clubs in Germany, England and the United States after the Sydney FC teenager impressed during the 2025-26 A-League Men season.

The 17-year-old winger made 15 league appearances and started Sydney FC’s 1-0 grand final defeat to Auckland FC. His performances have placed Sydney FC in a strong position as overseas interest grows.

In international football, Spain defeated France to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Akol Akon recently signed an extension that will keep him at Sydney FC through the 2028-29 season, as confirmed by the club’s official contract announcement.

Any transfer completed before his 18th birthday next May would see Akol Akon remain with Sydney FC for the 2026-27 campaign. That arrangement would give the teenager another full season of senior football before moving abroad.

Akol Akon can play on either wing or through the centre, giving coaches several attacking options. His pace and direct running have made him one of Australian football’s most watched young players.

Former Sydney FC defender Jake Girdwood-Reich is also close to joining Motherwell Football Club from Major League Soccer side St. Louis City SC. Jake Girdwood-Reich spent last season on loan with champion Auckland FC.

Motherwell Football Club has already added New Zealand goalkeeper Alex Paulsen on loan from AFC Bournemouth. Its squad also includes former Sydney FC striker Apostolos Stamatelopoulos.

“I’ve got a great feeling coming in here,” Alex Paulsen said. “There is a clear vision, and I hope I can help the team achieve that.”