Middlesbrough sign Ghanaian teenager Listowell Hinneh after successful trial

Middlesbrough have completed the signing of Ghanaian teenager Listowell Lord Hinneh following a successful trial, adding another young African prospect to their academy ranks as the club continues to invest in long-term talent development.

The Championship side confirmed the move after the January transfer window, announcing that the 18-year-old forward had impressed sufficiently during his assessment period to earn a contract, subject to international clearance.

In a statement published on the club’s official website, Middlesbrough said: “Young Ghanaian forward Listowell Lord Hinneh has joined Boro. The 18-year-old has completed a move to the club after a successful trial period, subject to receiving international clearance. Listowell has played five times in the last two seasons in the Ghana Premier League, representing Berekum Chelsea and Asante Kotoko. He was previously part of Ghana-based Samba Stars Academy, and has represented Ghana as a youth international. Welcome to Boro, Listowell!”

Hinneh’s signing follows a period of close monitoring by the Teesside club, which had tracked his progress both in Ghana and during previous trial spells at Rockliffe Park. The forward, who joined Asante Kotoko last summer, featured in domestic league matches and gained continental exposure in the CAF Confederation Cup, despite his relatively short stay at the Kumasi-based club.

Before his move to Kotoko, Hinneh also turned out for Berekum Chelsea in the Ghana Premier League and emerged from the Samba Stars Academy, a talent development centre that has gained attention for producing technically gifted players. His performances at youth level also earned him call-ups to Ghana’s junior national teams.

Middlesbrough’s interest in the teenager dates back several months, with the club offering him two separate trial periods last season. Although no immediate deal was agreed at the time, the club continued to assess his development, with recruitment officials reportedly watching him in competitive action before deciding to formalise the move.

The young forward is expected to begin his Middlesbrough career with the Under-21 side once his visa and international clearance are finalised, as the club looks to integrate him gradually into its development structure. His arrival comes in a busy period for Boro, who strengthened their senior squad during the January window while also reshaping their academy pipeline.