Atletico Madrid has joined Manchester United and other English Premier League clubs in the race to sign Nigerian-born defender Honest Ahanor, with the 18-year-old emerging as one of the most sought-after young centre-backs in Europe ahead of the summer transfer window, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Spanish capital club have intensified their interest in the Atalanta defender as they look to strengthen their back line.
“Atlético de Madrid have stepped up their monitoring of Honest Ahanor, the promising Nigerian defender currently playing for Atalanta,” Fichajes stated.
Ahanor has enjoyed a rapid rise since joining Atalanta from Genoa last summer, establishing himself as one of the brightest prospects in Serie A.
The teenager has accumulated nearly 1,500 minutes in 24 appearances across all competitions in the 2025/26 season, including outings in the UEFA Champions League.
Manchester United are among several Premier League clubs tracking his development, with Tottenham and Newcastle also credited with strong interest.
“Manchester United, Tottenham, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest have all dispatched scouts to compile detailed reports on his progress,” Fichajes added, highlighting the growing competition for his signature.
United’s interest comes amid doubts over Harry Maguire’s future at Old Trafford, with the England international entering the final six months of his contract. Newcastle are monitoring the situation as Fabian Schär faces an uncertain future, while Tottenham are weighing defensive options amid speculation surrounding Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
Ahanor’s contract with Atalanta reportedly includes a release clause in the region of €50m to €65m per Fichajes, a figure that could shape negotiations in what is expected to be a competitive transfer battle.
Atlético are understood to view defensive reinforcements as a priority, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the future of José María Giménez at the Metropolitano.
The Spanish club believe Ahanor’s profile fits Diego Simeone long-term plans, with Fichajes noting that “Diego Simeone is said to value the Nigerian’s anticipation and strength in individual duels, qualities he consistently demonstrates in Serie A.”
“Atlético’s technical department believe securing a player of this calibre could anchor their defence for more than a decade.”
Off the pitch, the defender has also made a significant international decision. Having been born in Italy to Nigerian parents, he was previously registered as a Nigerian due to immigration regulations.
However, after turning 18 on Monday, he has now been cleared to represent Italy at the senior level and is expected to switch his registration from Nigeria to Italy.
head coach Gennaro Gattuso had previously indicated that Ahanor’s lack of an Italian passport prevented his selection.
That obstacle has now been removed, paving the way for a potential call-up. Nigeria had reportedly attempted to persuade him to commit internationally, but the defender is understood to be focused on fulfilling his ambition of representing Italy.
With interest mounting from Spain and England, the coming months could prove decisive in shaping both Ahanor’s club future and his international career.
Olamide Abe
