Super Eagles transfer watch: Why Italy may beat Nigeria to Juventus target Jeff Ekhator

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle will likely be at alert as one of the players he is closely monitoring is set to make a big career move this summer, Afrik-Foot reports

Italian giants Juventus have reportedly opened talks with Genoa over a possible move for Super Eagles-eligible striker Jeff Ekhator as they prepare for the 2026/27 season.

According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Turin club want to strengthen their attack with young talent, and the 19-year-old has become one of their main targets after an impressive breakthrough campaign.

Ekhator enjoyed a solid season with Genoa, scoring four goals in 32 appearances in all competitions. Although those numbers are modest, his pace, movement and potential have made him one of Italy’s most highly rated young forwards.

Earlier this month, the teenager made his senior debut for four-time FIFA World Cup winners Italy. He immediately impressed by setting up the only goal in Italy’s 1-0 victory over Greece, a performance that increased interest in his future.

Juventus are now trying to reach an agreement with Genoa before the end of June. Reports in Italy say the discussions could involve player exchanges, with Juventus Next Gen defender David Puczka among the names being considered.

Genoa are also interested in Colombian defender Juan Cabal, although reports claim the Juventus player does not want to leave Turin. Other Juventus youngsters and senior players who are outside the club’s plans could also become part of the negotiations.

Super Eagles: Why Italy currently appears to have the advantage over Nigeria

Ekhator remains eligible to play for Nigeria’s Super Eagles through his family background, while also qualifying for Italy because he was born and raised there.

The young striker has previously spoken warmly about his Nigerian roots, showing that he values his family’s heritage. However, several football and career factors currently appear to give Italy an advantage in the battle for his international future.

Here are three major reasons.

Italy offers a clearer path into the senior team

One of the biggest challenges for any young striker hoping to play for Nigeria is the fierce competition for places.

The Super Eagles already have several established forwards playing in Europe’s top leagues. Victor Osimhen remains the team’s leading striker, while Victor Boniface, Terem Moffi, Paul Onuachu, Tolu Arokodare and Akor Adams all compete for attacking positions. Ademola Lookman also provides another dangerous goal-scoring option.

Breaking into that group would be extremely difficult for a teenager who is only beginning his senior career.

Italy’s situation is different. Although the Azzurri have talented forwards such as Mateo Retegui, Gianluca Scamacca and Moise Kean, they have spent several years searching for a consistent first-choice No. 9 capable of leading the attack for many seasons.

That creates a bigger opportunity for a young striker like Ekhator. After already making his senior debut and providing the winning assist against Greece, he appears to have a realistic chance of becoming a regular part of Italy’s long-term plans.

His football development has been built entirely in Italy

Another important factor is where Ekhator has developed as a footballer. Born in Genoa, he has spent his entire football education in Italy. He has grown through the Italian system from youth football into professional football with Genoa before earning promotion through Italy’s youth national teams.

His progress from the Under-19 team to the Under-20s, then into the Under-21 setup before receiving a senior call-up, shows that the Italian Football Federation has monitored his development for several years.

Because the coaches already know his strengths, tactical understanding and playing style, his pathway into the senior national team has been carefully planned. That long-term investment naturally strengthens Italy’s chances of keeping him in the national team.

Playing for Italy could boost his club career

A move to Juventus would place Ekhator under even greater attention in Serie A. Remaining an Italy international while playing for one of the country’s biggest clubs could increase his profile in Italian football and strengthen his value as a home-grown player.

It would also reduce the long trips required for African international matches during the club season, allowing him to spend more time with his club between international breaks.

Ekhator has also acknowledged his strong connection to Italy, having previously explained that while he is proud of his Nigerian heritage, he feels deeply connected to the country where he was born and raised.

Even so, his international future is not completely settled. Until he becomes permanently tied to one nation under FIFA regulations or publicly confirms his decision, Nigeria can still hope that one of Europe’s brightest young forwards could one day wear the famous green and white shirt of the Super Eagles.