Atletico Madrid will reportedly look to sign 18-year-old Nigerian centre-back Honest Ahanor from Serie A club Atalanta in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Honest Ahanor is the subject of interest from Atletico Madrid. The Spanish giants are scouring the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window and have set their sights on the Atalanta prodigy. However, they will face stiff competition from several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Who is Honest Ahanor?
Honest Ahanor has established himself as one of the best young prospects in Serie A since joining Atalanta from Genoa last summer. Born in Aversa, the youngster has spent his formative years thus far in Italy, starting his youth career with Progetto Atletico Genoa before graduating from the youth division at Genoa CFC.
The 18-year-old has gradually grown in stature in the 2025/26 season, amassing nearly 1,500 minutes of game time in 24 appearances across all competitions thus far. Meanwhile, Ahanor’s progress has not gone unnoticed, with several high-profile clubs vying for his signature heading into the summer transfer window. Atletico Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United are keen on signing the Nigerian defender.
A man in demand
Atletico Madrid will dip into the market for a centre-back in the summer transfer window, as Diego Simeone wants more options in the central defensive unit. Additionally, Jose Maria Gimenez faces an uncertain future at Estadio Metropolitano. So, Ahanor is a viable target for Atletico Madrid. As for Manchester United, Harry Maguire’s long-term future is uncertain.
The English international has entered the final six months of his contract, and a summer move away from Manchester United may be on the cards. Meanwhile, Newcastle United’s interest in Honest Ahanor is understandable, as Fabian Schar faces an uncertain future at St. James’ Park. Additionally, Dan Burn is on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the twilight of his career.
As for Tottenham, Cristian Romero faces an uncertain future at the North London club after his recent outbursts. Additionally, widespread reports have linked Micky van de Ven with several high-profile clubs. So, Ahanor is an option worth considering for Tottenham.
Meanwhile, the 18-year-old Nigerian defender has a release clause worth around €50-65 million in his contract with Atalanta. So, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for Ahanor amid his links with Atletico Madrid, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Tottenham.
