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3 clusters · 4 sources · 19 days · First seen · Last updated

European interest in George Ilenikhena

Overview

George Ilenikhena, a 19-year-old Nigerian-French striker currently under contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad, has become a target for several European football clubs seeking to provide him with regular playing time.

Initially, interest was reported from Serie A side Genoa, who were pursuing a loan deal with an option to buy, as well as West Ham United and Schalke 04. Sevilla FC has emerged as a primary suitor, seeking a loan to bolster its attacking options for the La Liga season following the departure of Akor Adams to Venezia. Ilenikhena, who holds the record as the youngest Nigerian-born player to score in the UEFA Champions League, is reportedly open to returning to Europe to secure more consistent minutes.

While Ilenikhena has seen limited action in Saudi Arabia since his €33 million move from AS Monaco in February 2026, he recently demonstrated his scoring ability by netting two goals in Al-Ittihad’s 3-0 King Cup victory over Al-Najma. Despite this performance, interest in the striker continues to grow, with Bologna and Trabzonspor reportedly expressing interest through loan offers with options to buy.

Entities

George Ilenikhena · Al-Ittihad · FC Schalke 04 · Akor Adams · Genoa C.F.C.

Timeline

  1. 6 days ago

    [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Al-Ittihad advances in King Cup behind George Ilenikhena brace

    George Ilenikhena scored twice as Al-Ittihad defeated Al-Najma 3-0 in the King Cup, amid reports that the striker seeks a return to European football.

  2. 14 days ago

    [SPORTS] 3 sources
    Sevilla targets George Ilenikhena on loan from Al-Ittihad

    Sevilla FC is negotiating a loan deal for Nigerian striker George Ilenikhena from Al-Ittihad to reinforce its attack following the departure of Akor Adams.

  3. 25 days ago

    [SPORTS] 2 sources
    George Ilenikhena linked with moves to Genoa, West Ham and Schalke

    19‑year‑old Nigerian‑French forward George Ilenikhena of Al‑Ittihad is being linked with loan moves to Genoa, West Ham United and Schalke 04 as he seeks more playing time in Europe.

Sources

nigeriafootball.ng · pulsesports.ng · voetbalprimeur.nl · walfoot.be

This summary has been updated 1 time: see revision history