The race to sign one of football's most exciting young talents is heating up, with Spanish giants Real Madrid reportedly preparing to disrupt Chelsea's plans for Nigerian teenage defender Honest Ahanor.
European Giants Circle Nigerian Prodigy
Honest Ahanor, the 17-year-old Nigeria-eligible defender currently playing for Atalanta in Italy's Serie A, has become one of the most sought-after prospects in European football. According to reports from Football Transfers, Real Madrid have now entered the fray and are positioning themselves to "hijack" any potential move by Premier League clubs Chelsea or Manchester City.
The young defender, who moved from Genoa to Atalanta in the summer of 2025 for a fee of €20 million, has made an immediate impact. Despite his age, Ahanor has already accumulated 19 senior appearances for Atalanta this season, starting six matches in Serie A. His performances have showcased a remarkable versatility, as he can operate effectively as a left-back, wing-back, or centre-back.
Chelsea and City's Long-Standing Interest
Interest from England is not new. Chelsea's ownership group, BlueCo, first identified Ahanor's potential during his time in Genoa's youth academy. This season, scouts from both Chelsea and Manchester City have been "virtually ever-present" at Atalanta's matches, closely monitoring his development with a view to a long-term investment.
However, a move to the Premier League faces a regulatory hurdle. Due to post-Brexit rules, Ahanor would only become eligible for a transfer to England after he turns 18 in February 2026. This leaves a window of opportunity for clubs from other European leagues, like Real Madrid, to make their move sooner.
The list of clubs tracking Ahanor's progress is a who's who of European football. Alongside Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Manchester City, scouts from Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur have all been credited with interest in the talented teenager.
Real Madrid's Entry Could Spark Bidding War
The involvement of Real Madrid, the reigning European champions, is a significant development that could dramatically escalate the situation. Atalanta, with the player under contract until 2028, is in a very strong negotiating position. Reports suggest the Italian club could demand a fee in the region of €60 million if a serious bidding war ensues between the continent's wealthiest clubs.
A source close to the club acknowledged the intense scrutiny, stating, "Every top club in Europe is watching Honest, but in recent weeks Chelsea and City have been virtually ever-present. He is a huge talent." Despite the growing speculation, Ahanor is said to be remaining focused on his development at Atalanta, where he continues to gain invaluable experience in one of Europe's top leagues.
In a related development, Super Eagles forward and Ahanor's club teammate Ademola Lookman has reportedly been asked to encourage the young defender to commit his international future to Nigeria. This advice came just ahead of the Super Eagles' crucial World Cup qualifying play-off in Morocco.
As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on the future of Honest Ahanor. His combination of youth, proven ability in Serie A, and exceptional versatility make him a unique and highly valuable asset, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster transfer battle in 2026.
