Super Eagles: Akor Adams joins Venezia – key reason behind move

Super Eagles forward Akor Adams has officially joined newly promoted Serie A side Venezia from Sevilla ahead of the 2026-27 season, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 26-year-old had attracted interest from both Venezia and French club Olympique Marseille. However, Marseille later pulled out of the race due to financial constraints, leaving the Italian club clear to complete the deal.

Venezia have now sealed a club record transfer worth around €23 million for the Nigerian striker. The deal includes a fixed fee of €17 million, with the remaining €6 million to be paid in performance-related add-ons.

Adams has signed a four-year contract and is expected to earn around €1.5 million per season. The move also makes him the most expensive signing in Venezia’s history as they prepare for their return to Serie A.

Akor Adams: Why Super Eagles star joined Venezia

While Sevilla’s financial situation played a major role in their decision to sell Adams, Venezia viewed the Super Eagles striker as a statement signing ahead of the new campaign.

The Serie A side wanted an experienced forward to strengthen their attack as they aim to avoid relegation and establish themselves back in the Italian top flight.

Adams, however, revealed that Venezia’s long-term project was the biggest reason behind his decision to make the move, despite the club only just earning promotion to Serie A.

Speaking in his first interview after completing the transfer, the Super Eagles striker said he believes in the club’s vision and wants to help write a new chapter in its history.

“I chose to come here because I see the extraordinary project Venezia is building, and I want to contribute to writing a new chapter in its history,” Adams said, via Venezia FC offficial website.

“I want to tell the fans that what they manage to create in such a special place is truly incredible. The energy and passion they convey are unique. I have seen so many videos of the matches and I have been impressed by their constant support.

“I believe this team deserves to be in Serie A. It belongs in that league, also because of the affection and support the fans have always shown over the years. They are loyal, passionate, and never fail to support us. I am proud to be a part of all this.”

Adams will now be hoping to settle in quickly during pre-season as he begins life at Venezia. His first major test could come on Monday when Venezia face Victor Osimhen’s Galatasaray in a pre-season friendly.

The Super Eagles forward will then be aiming to carry that momentum into the new campaign as Venezia look to secure their Serie A status when the 2026-27 Serie A season gets underway on August 23, with a clash against Lecce in front of their home supporters.