Nigeria could be set to lose another top defensive prospect as the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) have reportedly sent scouts to watch Atalanta’s teenage sensation, Honest Ahanor, Footynaija.com reports.
The 17-year-old, born in Aversa to Nigerian parents, has continued to turn heads in Italy with his calmness on the ball and fearless defending. He has made a name for himself this season, showing rare maturity for his age.
Since joining Atalanta from Genoa in July 2025, the young left-back has already featured in Serie A and the UEFA Champions League, earning praise from fans and pundits for his strong tackling and ability to read the game.
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Born in 2008, the defender is still eligible to play for Nigeria, but he has yet to represent either country at international level. His progress in Italy has now caught the attention of national selectors in Rome, who are reportedly moving fast to monitor his development ahead of next year’s fixtures.
As revealed in a report by Legit.ng, the Italian Football Federation have dispatched scouts to follow Ahanor’s growth with Atalanta as they consider him for future youth call-ups.
Described as “the most impressive teenager in this serie A season,” Ahanor remains eligible for the Super Eagles under FIFA rules. With his Italian birth and ongoing residency, he is expected to qualify for Italian citizenship once he turns 18 in February 2026, which would also make him available for Italy’s national team.
Standing around 1.84 metres tall, Ahanor has impressed with his strength, composure, and left-footed balance. His €20 million move from Genoa to Atalanta last summer showed the level of confidence Italian clubs have in his potential.
At just 17, he became the first player born in 2008 to start a Serie A game, marking his debut against Juventus last season while still at Genoa.
