Akinsanmiro: Three clubs Inter Milan youngster could return to after Pisa setback

Super Eagles midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro faces a key decision over his long-term future ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The young Nigerian midfielder is expected to return to Inter Milan, where discussions over his next move will be made this summer.

Akinsanmiro initially joined Inter Milan in 2023 but has since spent time on loan at Sampdoria during the 2024–25 season and most recently at Pisa in the 2025–26 campaign. He made 24 appearances in Serie A for Pisa, registering one assist, although his overall impact on the pitch was not fully reflected by the numbers.

The loan agreement also included an option to make the move permanent for a fee of around €7.5 million, and it had initially appeared that Pisa would activate the clause to secure his signature.

However, the only twist was that Inter included a buy-back clause, and it remained unclear how the situation would eventually unfold.

Fresh reports from Gianluca Di Marzio now confirm that Pisa have decided to back out of the deal and will not pursue the permanent option. As a result, Akinsanmiro will return to Inter Milan this summer.

With no clear pathway to regular first-team football at Inter, another loan move, or even a permanent transfer could be considered as he enters the next stage of his career.

Despite the setback, Akinsanmiro continues to attract interest, meaning he is far from short of options ahead of the transfer window. Afrik-Foot takes a look at three potential destinations for the midfielder.

Three clubs Ebenezer Akinsanmiro could join this summer

1. Bologna

Serie A side Bologna have shown the strongest interest in Akinsanmiro, and he could soon become a player for the club if negotiations progresses well.

The former Coppa Italia winners have already made enquiries about his availability, and now that Pisa have stepped away from a permanent deal, they are expected to step up their pursuit in the coming weeks.

Bologna are planning a major rebuild after narrowly missing out on European qualification last season. Akinsanmiro’s energy and pressing, as well as his young profile is also perfectly suited to their recruitment model, making him an attractive option for their midfield rebuild.

2. Bayer Leverkusen

Another possible destination for Akinsanmiro is the Bundesliga, where several top clubs are monitoring his situation, including Bayer Leverkusen.

Die Werkself have a strong reputation for developing young talent, and a move to Leverkusen under a progressive setup could be very important for his development.

The presence of Super Eagles teammates Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella would also help his adaptation, which also makes the German club a very appealing option. A move to the Bundesliga would also offer him the chance to thrive in a new environment and potentially pave the way for a bigger transfer in the future.

3. Benfica

Benfica have long been admirers of Akinsanmiro and were previously interested when he first moved to Europe from Nigeria in 2023, before he joined Inter Milan.

The Portuguese giants are not expected to miss another opportunity to sign him, especially as he fits their profile and also as they are looking to strengthen ahead of the new season as they aim to compete for the league title against Porto and Sporting CP.

In addition, the arrival of Marco Silva as head coach could further boost their interest. Silva has previously helped in the development of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey during his time at Fulham and Akinsanmiro could become the latest Nigerian player to grow under his leadership.

If Benfica can meet Inter Milan’s valuation, Akinsanmiro could make the move to Lisbon and become only the fourth Nigerian to play for the club, after Richard Owubokiri, Samuel Okunowo, and Tyrone Ebuehi.