Super Eagles-eligible defender David Odogu joined AC Milan with plenty of expectation after the Italian giants beat off competition to sign one of Europe’s most highly rated young centre-backs from Wolfsburg last summer, Footynaija.com reports.
Just a year later, however, the next step in his development could take him away from San Siro instead.
The 20-year-old found first-team opportunities difficult to come by during his debut season in Italy. Milan handed him only three senior appearances under Massimiliano Allegri, while most of his football came away from the spotlight as he continued adapting to a new club and a different style of play.
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That lack of regular minutes has not affected his reputation. Odogu remains one of the brightest Nigerian-eligible defensive prospects in Europe after impressing at youth level for Germany, and Milan still view him as a player with long-term potential rather than someone they are ready to give up on.
Mainz and Anderlecht emerge as loan options
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, via Football Italia, Milan are prepared to send Odogu out on loan this summer, with Bundesliga side Mainz and Belgian giants Anderlecht both stepping forward to explore a deal.
The plan is understood to be centred on his development rather than a permanent exit. New head coach Ruben Amorim has assessed his squad during pre-season, and both the player and the club believe regular first-team football would be more valuable than another season on the fringes at San Siro.
A return to Germany would offer Odogu the chance to continue his growth in familiar surroundings, while Anderlecht’s strong record of developing young players also makes Belgium an attractive option.
Although Odogu has represented Germany at youth level, he remains eligible for the Super Eagles through his Nigerian roots.
