English Premier League side Brighton have made a bid of around £30 million (approximately N54.5 billion in Nigerian currency) for Atalanta defender Honest Ahanor, according to transfer expert Ben Jacobs, as they continue their push to strengthen their defensive line ahead of the new season.
The 18-year-old centre-back has emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in Italian football, earning attention for his composure, physical maturity and ability to play out from the back under pressure.
His rapid rise at Atalanta has placed him firmly on the radar of several top European clubs, with Brighton now taking a leading position in the race for his signature.
Born in Aversa, Italy, to Nigerian parents, Ahanor remains eligible to represent both Italy and Nigeria at senior international level.
While he has already featured for Italy at senior level, his international future is still open, keeping hopes alive for the Nigeria Football Federation, who are closely monitoring his development.
Brighton’s approach is consistent with their recruitment strategy of targeting young players and developing them into Premier League regulars.
The club have built a strong track record of identifying emerging talent early and investing before their market value increases significantly.
Atalanta, however, are expected to resist any early departure, with the Serie A side known for nurturing and retaining young prospects unless their valuation is fully met.
With interest building across Europe, Honest Ahanor now finds himself at the centre of a developing transfer battle, with Brighton leading the early pursuit for one of Italy’s most exciting teenage defenders.
Wale Adejumo
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