Genoa teen wonder Ekhator on Juventus radar but will he choose Italy or Nigeria?

Italian giants Juventus are keeping a very close eye on young striker Jeff Ekhator as they plan for the future, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 19-year-old currently plays for Genoa and is seen as one of the most exciting young forwards in Italy. Juventus scouts are expected to watch him closely when the two sides meet in Serie A, as the club considers whether to make a move in the summer of 2026.

At the moment, Juventus do not believe Ekhator is ready to lead the line for their first team. But that has not stopped them from planning ahead. Inside the club, there is a strong belief that he has the talent to grow into a top-level striker in the coming years.

The idea is to sign him early before his value rises. If a deal happens, Juventus could allow him to continue developing either on loan or within their youth setup. It is a strategy they have used before, bringing in young players early and giving them time to grow.

Part of the interest also comes from sporting director Marco Ottolini, who knows Ekhator well from his time helping to build the Genoa squad. That connection could prove important if Juventus decide to move quickly.

Ekhator is under contract at Genoa until 2029, and although his current value is around €13 million, the club may demand more because of his age and potential.

So far this season, the teenager has mostly come off the bench. He has made 24 league appearances, scoring two goals, and added another in the Coppa Italia. Those numbers may look modest, but his performances have shown flashes of quality; good movement, sharp finishing, and the confidence to play at a high level.

Ekhator: Super Eagles hope remains alive

While Juventus are thinking about Ekhator’s club future, another important question is his international future.

Ekhator currently represents Italy at youth level and plays for the Under-21 side. He has already scored goals in important matches and is seen as a rising talent within the Italian system.

However, there is still a chance for Nigeria national football team to bring him into their squad.

Because he has not yet played for Italy’s senior team, he remains eligible to switch and represent Nigeria. Even though he has featured in competitive youth matches, the rules allow him to make a one-time switch if he chooses to do so.

Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, has made it clear that he wants to attract players with Nigerian roots from around the world. Ekhator fits that profile perfectly; a young striker with strong potential who could strengthen the Super Eagles in the future.

But there is a risk.

If Ekhator plays even one competitive match for Italy’s senior team, the door to Nigeria will close permanently. That means the Nigeria Football Federation may need to act quickly if they want to convince him.

There are also other factors that could influence his decision. Nigeria recently missed out on the 2026 World Cup, which may affect how attractive the national team looks in the short term. On the other hand, the chance to play regular senior international football could be a big advantage compared to waiting for opportunities with Italy.