Honest Ahanor: AC Milan join Real Madrid, Bayern in race for Nigerian teen wonder

AC Milan are preparing for the future and have identified young Nigerian defender Honest Ahanor as one of their main transfer targets ahead of next season, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Serie A side, currently competing strongly near the top of the table behind city rivals Inter Milan, want to strengthen their defence with a young player capable of developing into a long-term leader at the back. Club officials believe Ahanor fits that profile perfectly.

The 18-year-old centre-back is under contract with Atalanta BC until 2028 after joining from Genoa CFC in 2025. Milan had already explored a move for him last summer but were unable to complete the transfer before Atalanta secured his signature.

🚨Honest Ahanor TODAY turns 18 years old. He can now officially obtain his full Italian citizenship. Once ALL documents are completed with FIGC, he can then become available for Gennaro Gattuso

He DREAMS of playing for the Azzurri

We are close to his arrival in Coverciano

⏳🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/3c5JhswjXe

— AzzurriXtra🇮🇹 (@XtraAzzurri) February 23, 2026

Despite his young age, Ahanor has quickly earned senior experience. This season he has made 15 appearances in Serie A and featured six times in the UEFA Champions League, impressive numbers for a teenager still learning his trade.

However, Milan face serious competition. European heavyweights Real Madrid CF, FC Bayern Munich, and Italian rivals Juventus FC are all monitoring the defender’s progress closely, according to Tutto Juve.

La Liga giants Atletico Madrid are also monitoring the defender, who is believed to be on the radar of Nigerian national team coach, Eric Chelle. Each club is known for investing early in elite young talent, which could make negotiations difficult if Ahanor becomes available.

Nigeria and Italy battle for international future

While Ahanor is becoming the toast of Europe’s biggest clubs, the youngster’s international career is also entering an important stage.

Born in Aversa to Nigerian parents, the defender today (23 February 2026) became eligible to apply for Italian citizenship after turning 18. The development opens the door for him to represent either Nigeria or Italy at senior level.

He has not yet played for any national team, but officials from the Italian Football Federation have already shown interest. Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso watched him closely during Atalanta’s 1-1 draw with AC Milan in October 2025.

Italy have previously convinced several players of Nigerian heritage to represent them internationally, while Nigeria have also succeeded in attracting dual-national talents. One example is Calvin Bassey, who chose the Super Eagles despite being born in Italy.

Since arriving at Atalanta, Ahanor has played 24 senior matches and scored his first professional goal against his former club in December 2025.