Udinese of Italy have set in motion another angle to their romance with Nigerian players, as the Italian Serie A club have signed on former AC Milan youth team defender, Destiny Udogie, megasportsarena.com reports.
Udogie makes the move to the Udine-based side a year after they allowed Super Eagles’ vice-captain, William Troost-Ekong join their sister club, Watford of England on loan, but soon turned it into a full transfer to the English Premier League returnees.
Consequently, Troost-Ekong’s place at Udinese is set to finally be taken over by the Nigerian-born fast rising star, following confirmation by the club of a deal for Udogie, who will now line out this season with La Bianconeri on a season-long loan from Hellas Verona.
The left-footed full-back-cum-central defender, whose deal comes with an option to buy at the end of the campaign, is regarded as one of the top young talents in Italy, Udogie was born in Italy and has represented that country at under-16, -17, -18, -19 and -20 levels.
A report by allnigeriasoccer.com added: “He was an influential member of Italy’s squad to the 2019 U17 World Cup, starting four of their five matches during the tournament in Brazil with a goal and assist to his name.
“Predominantly a fullback, he is comfortable playing as a left winger, defensive midfielder and central midfielder. Last season, he appeared in six Serie A matches, including games against the two Milan clubs, Napoli and Atalanta.
“Udogie will be aiming to follow in the footsteps of Isaac Success, Odion Ighalo, William Troost-Ekong and Uche Agbo who earned moves to Watford after initially signing for the Little Zebras.”
