Akor Adams: Venezia agree deal for Super Eagles star – three challenges he could face in Italy 

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Super Eagles forward Akor Adams is closing in on a move to newly promoted Serie A side Venezia after the Italian club reached an agreement with Sevilla over his transfer, Afrik-Foot reports.

Adams’ future has been one of the major talking points since the start of the summer transfer window. French club Olympique Marseille were initially interested in signing him before Venezia entered the race for the Nigerian striker.

Sevilla’s financial situation also played a key role in the negotiations. The Spanish club were keen to raise funds and had previously rejected a €10 million offer from Venezia for the Super Eagles forward.

According to reports from L’Equipe via OneFootball, Sevilla and Venezia have now reached an agreement that will see Adams complete a move to Italy for a fee worth more than €16 million.

Super Eagles and Sevilla striker Akor Adams
Super Eagles and Sevilla striker Akor Adams. Copyright: xIvanxTerronxIMAGO

The agreement brings an end to a transfer saga that has lasted throughout the summer. Although Sevilla had initially valued the Nigerian striker at around €25 million, they have now lowered their demands to complete the deal.

Venezia, meanwhile, were determined to strengthen their squad as they prepare for life back in Serie A following their promotion. While Adams is expected to play a key role in their plans, his move to Italy may not be without its challenges.

Three challenges Akor Adams could face at Venezia

The move to Venezia will see Akor Adams change clubs once again after spending just 18 months at Sevilla, which might be a major obstacle for him.

Adjusting to a new club is rarely straightforward, especially in a different country. The Nigerian forward will have to settle into a new environment, build relationships with new teammates and adapt to a different style of football.

Super Eagles and Sevilla stars Chidera Ejuke and Akor Adams
Chidera Ejuke and Adams. Copyright: xAndresxLopezxSheridanxx/IMAGO

He experienced something similar after joining Sevilla from Montpellier. Adams struggled during his first few months in Spain as he adjusted to his new surroundings before eventually finding his feet.

Once he settled in, the Super Eagles striker enjoyed a much better campaign, scoring 10 La Liga goals last season.

A move to Italy will present another fresh challenge. Besides adapting to a new tactical system, he will also have to deal with a possible language barrier and get used to a completely different dressing room before he can perform at his best.

Another challenge Adams could face is the pressure that comes with his transfer fee. With the deal agreed, the Nigerian striker is set to become the most expensive signing in Venezia’s history.

A club-record transfer naturally comes with high expectations. Adams will be expected to make an immediate impact and justify the money spent on him.

Should he struggle in his opening matches, criticism could quickly follow and that pressure can make settling into a new team even more difficult.

Given the size of the transfer fee, a lot will be expected from the Super Eagles forward throughout the season, and Venezia will be hoping he delivers consistently.

The quality of Venezia’s squad could also present another challenge. The Italian club have only just secured promotion to Serie A and will face stronger opposition on a weekly basis and competing against some of Italy’s biggest clubs will not be easy.

That could make life more difficult for Adams, especially if Venezia struggle to create enough chances or find themselves battling relegation.

Akor Adams seen celebrating for Nigeria
Akor Adams seen celebrating for Nigeria. Copyright: xLuisxLoureiroxImago

However, the club’s activity in the transfer market suggests they are determined to strengthen the squad and avoid an immediate return to Serie B and with pre-season approaching, the timing of the transfer should also work in Adams’ favour. 

While the move offers an exciting opportunity, overcoming these challenges will be crucial if the Super Eagles forward is to make his mark in Serie A.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

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Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.