Chelsea contact Atalanta over Super Eagles-eligible defender Ahanor

Chelsea have made contact with Atalanta over a possible move for Honest Ahanor, taking a significant step in their pursuit of the defender. The 18-year-old remains eligible to represent Nigeria through the Super Eagles despite having featured for Italy at age-group level.

Ahanor has been monitored by the Premier League club as Chelsea assess the possibility of bringing him to England. His international background gives the transfer an additional angle, with his appearances for Italy’s youth teams not preventing him from representing Nigeria at senior level.

Atalanta are understood to value the defender at €60 million. That figure would be the asking price for the Italian club to approve his departure, making the potential transfer a major financial commitment for Chelsea. No agreement has been confirmed, but contact between the clubs marks progress in the discussions.

Ahanor joined Atalanta in the summer of 2025 and quickly became part of the club’s first-team plans. He made 22 appearances during the 2025/2026 season, giving him senior experience at Atalanta despite his age.

His form and involvement have kept him on Chelsea’s radar, while his eligibility for Nigeria will continue to attract attention from Super Eagles supporters. The defender’s international future remains open because his involvement so far has been limited to age-grade football with Italy.

Chelsea’s approach now puts Atalanta’s valuation at the centre of any possible deal. The Italian club’s €60 million demand and Ahanor’s recent first-team experience will shape the next stage of negotiations as Chelsea consider whether to advance their interest in the Nigeria-eligible teenager.