Boreham Wood striker Abdul Abdulmalik has spoken publicly about his desire to join Djurgardens after the Swedish club submitted an improved £1.5 million offer.
According to Sky Sports, Djurgardens have approached fifth-tier club Boreham Wood with an improved offer this week after seeing their initial offer of £1 million rejected earlier this month.
Boreham Wood, however, are determined to keep Abdulmalik following his breakout display last season where he recorded 17 goals and 10 assists.
The 23-year-old has picked up where he left off, recording one goal and two assists in his first two league appearances of the new campaign.
Djurgardens’ £1.5m Bid Could Set New National League Transfer Record
Djurgardens’ improved £1.5m bid for Abdulmalik could set a new English record transfer fee for a fifth-tier player.
Jamie Vardy’s £1 million move from Fleetwood Town to Leicester City in 2012 remains the benchmark for the highest fee paid for a player moving directly from the fifth tier.
Abdulmalik rose through the ranks at Millwall before arriving at Boreham Wood on a free transfer in 2024.
He was named the National League Young Player of the Season for the 2025-26 campaign after dazzling in Boreham Wood’s playoff final against Rochdale at Wembley in May.
Abdulmalik Explains Why He Wants to Leave Boreham Wood
The 23-year-old addressed the situation in a message posted on Instagram on Tuesday, describing the opportunity as potentially once-in-a-lifetime.
In the lengthy note, Abdulmalik also vowed to fight for the move to Sweden before September 1 transfer deadline.
He said on his Instagram story: “I’m just a kid from South London. Just like most boys where I’m from, it starts in a council estate.
“We dreamt of playing the beautiful game at the highest level. I’d dream about the big games, the stadium lights, the opportunity to come up against and play alongside the best.
“Kids where I’m from know we have to work extra hard and nothing is handed to us. I have always known this, that’s why I continue to strive for the best.
“My career in football wouldn’t even be possible without the support of my family and loved ones. We don’t come from much so it’s never been the easiest career to support. For those people, I will always be grateful and fortunate.
“That’s why from the beginning I have vowed to do my best to support them and take my career to the furthest heights possible.
“Through sheer hard work and perseverance, the opportunity to progress has come around.
“This is my chance to push myself as a footballer, elevate my game and most importantly fulfil my promise to the ones around me.
“Opportunities like this are rare, especially within the National League where some of the hardest working talent is overlooked.
“The game of football is forever changing and decisions are fast paced. There’s no guarantee that the same chances come knocking twice.
“I owe it to myself and the kids growing up just like me to fight for this one I’ve been offered.
“Moving on from a club is one of the toughest decisions in a footballers career. I’m more than grateful for everyone that has been a part of my journey so far.
“Everyone at Borehamwood FC and the incredible fans have played a massive part.
“You will always have my respect. With this said, I’m ready for the next challenge. I’m ready to prove to myself and those around me that I’m capable of reaching the top.”
