Former U-20 invitee Akinsanmiro attracts interest from 7-time Serie A champions

Published on by Toyosi Afolayan

Bologna have set their sights on Inter Milan’s Nigerian midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, who is currently on loan at Serie B side Sampdoria. 

The 19-year-old has emerged as a promising talent, catching the attention of Bologna’s management as they look to strengthen their squad with young, high-potential players.

However, a potential transfer is complicated. Akinsanmiro’s loan deal with Sampdoria includes an option to buy and a counter-option, making any mid-season move challenging.

Former U-20 invitee Akinsanmiro attracts interest from 7-time Serie A champions
Photo by ICON SPORT

According to Corriere dello Sport, while Bologna remain keen, a transfer may not materialize until the summer.

Early beginnings and pro breakthrough

Akinsanmiro joined Inter Milan in January 2023 on a four-year deal after rising through the ranks at Nigeria Premier Football League side Remo Stars. 

He made his senior debut for Inter shortly after his arrival, featuring in a commanding 4-0 win over Lecce in February 2024.

The youngster’s move to Sampdoria this season has allowed him to gain regular playing time in a professional European league. 

Despite Sampdoria’s managerial changes—starting under Andrea Pirlo and now led by Andrea Sottil—Akinsanmiro has grown into a reliable figure in their midfield.

Former U-20 invitee Akinsanmiro attracts interest from 7-time Serie A champions
Photo by ICON SPORT

Akinsanmiro's progress at Sampdoria

The former Flying Eagles invitee has made 19 appearances in Serie B this season, starting nine matches and playing an average of 46 minutes per game.

In total, he has accumulated 876 minutes on the pitch and even earned two Team of the Week recognitions.

Akinsanmiro scored his first professional goal during Sampdoria’s thrilling 5-3 victory over Cesena, showcasing his attacking potential. 

Beyond attacking, Akinsanmiro averages 1.2 tackles, 0.4 interceptions, and 2.9 ball recoveries per game, while being dribbled past just 0.4 times on average. His 67% success rate in dribbles and ability to win 48% of his duels underline his versatility and resilience.

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Toyosi Afolayan

Toyosi Afolayan is a sports journalist who breathes life into the games we love. He loves to combine insightful analysis with historical background, creating a richer understanding of sports. Afolayan's expertise ranges from captivating narratives to live broadcasts, captivating audiences across platforms like Ojbsport, AllNigeriaSoccer, TVC Entertainment, Bounce Networks, Kwara TV, ICIR, EaglesTracker, and NFF TV. His background in History and International Studies adds depth, revealing the connections between sports, politics, and national identity.