Inter Milan are reportedly considering a transfer move for teenage Nigerian talent George Ilenikhena, who has earned the moniker ‘the new Victor Osimhen'.
The Italian giants are shifting their focus towards young prospects, aiming to strengthen their squad following their Scudetto triumph and to prepare for the future.
One of the plans is to inject young blood into the squad and reduce the average age as they aim to retain the Serie A title next season and also be protected for the future.
Italian news outlet, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Inter's directors, aligned with coach Simone Inzaghi, are seeking to rejuvenate the team by infusing new talent while maintaining their winning foundation.
One of the names that have been mentioned is that of young Nigerian striker George Ilenikhena who plays for Royal Antwerp in the Belgian top-flight.
Ilenikhena, 17, born in Lagos, who has already earned the nickname of ‘New Osimhen' is on the Nerazzurri’s list, and they will make efforts to sign him soon.
Inter Milan have lined up the youngster as an alternative to the proposed transfer of Genoa’s Albert Gudmundsson should the deal fail to go through the line.
The teenager has a lot of admirers in the Inter Milan set-up who will likely push to get the deal done to improve their squad depth and also groom the striker within their ranks.
The rise of Inter Milan target George Ilenikhena
Ilenikhena was born in Lagos, Nigeria before moving to France at a young age. He came to prominence in the Amiens academy with tons of goals before making in-roads to the main team.
After impressing with the first team, he had done enough to convince a lot of teams about his potential but it was Belgian side Antwerp who won the race for his signature.
Ilenikhena has had a relatively successful debut season for a teenager in a top-flight league.
Though not a regular starter for the club, the 17-year old has been able to score 14 goals in 45 appearances in all competitions.
Inter Milan's Scudetto victory has them setting their sights on the future. However, this future requires some adjustments in attack.
With the potential departures of Alexis Sanchez and the inconsistent Marko Arnautovic looming, Inter need reinforcements.
English sides Newcastle and West Ham United have also reportedly scouted the youngster with a view to putting in a bid.
However, Inter seem to have jumped ahead in the queue for his signature.
Joaquin Correa's loan move to Marseille is also uncertain, hinging on their Champions League qualification. If he returns, it's likely a temporary solution.
This creates a clear need for attacking talent. Inter's initial plan might have been more ambitious, targeting established names.
However, the current scenario has opened the door for a different approach: a young talent with high potential. This is where George Ilenikhena comes into picture.
The plan is to freshen up the squad with a blend of youth and experience, as the Nigerian is looked upon as the future of the team but may have to queue behind Marcus Thuram and others.
The potential arrival of Ilenikhena goes beyond just bolstering Inter's attacking prowess. It could pave the way for a promising Nigerian connection at the club.
Ilenikhena could find himself playing alongside 19-year-old midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, another exciting young Nigerian talent already at Inter.
This potential partnership signifies Inter's proactive approach to squad building.
By integrating promising young players alongside established stars, the Nerazzurri are taking steps to ensure sustained success in the years to come.
