Atletico Madrid, Man United vie for Nigerian defender Ahanor

Atletico de Madrid is intensifying its interest in 18-year-old Nigerian-born defender Honest Ahanor, currently playing for Atalanta. The Spanish club aims to strengthen its back line ahead of the summer transfer window, competing with Manchester United and several Premier League clubs, including Tottenham, Newcastle, and Nottingham Forest, who are tracking Ahanor's development.

Ahanor joined Atalanta from Genoa last summer and has established himself as one of the brightest prospects in Serie A, accumulating nearly 1,500 minutes across 24 appearances in the 2025-26 season, including in the UEFA Champions League. His contract reportedly includes a release clause in the region of €50 million to €65 million.

Atletico views Ahanor as a fit for Diego Simeone's long-term plans, especially amid uncertainty surrounding the future of Joao Miranda. Ahanor, born to Italian-Nigerian parents, is expected to represent Nigeria internationally, having previously registered with Italy.