Premier League side Bournemouth are making headlines with their summer transfer plans, as they have reportedly set their sights on Nigeria international goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. Currently the first-choice shot-stopper for Serie A side Udinese, Okoye has seen his stock rise significantly, attracting serious interest from across Europe.
According to sources at Africafoot, Bournemouth have already submitted a formal €13 million offer for the Super Eagles goalkeeper, signaling their intent to finalize the deal before the start of the 2025/26 season. Talks between both clubs are said to have advanced beyond the 30 percent mark, with negotiations continuing to progress. The move would mark a return to English football for Okoye, who previously had a stint with Watford but failed to make a lasting impression before making the switch to Italy.
The 24-year-old has regained his position as Udinese’s number one following an injury setback earlier in the season. Since his return, he has featured in 19 Serie A matches, keeping three clean sheets and producing several vital saves to keep his team competitive in the Italian topflight. Despite Udinese’s struggles in the league, Okoye’s performances have stood out, further validating his reputation as one of Africa’s most promising goalkeepers.
His strong form has caught the attention of Serie A giants AC Milan as well, who reportedly made an unsuccessful attempt to secure his services last summer. While the Rossoneri have not completely ruled out another bid, Bournemouth appear to be in the lead with a concrete financial offer on the table.
Okoye, who also featured for Fortuna Düsseldorf and Sparta Rotterdam earlier in his career, remains under contract with Udinese until June 2028. Despite his long-term deal, Udinese may be tempted to sell if Bournemouth’s offer is improved or structured with favorable terms. His current market value, according to Transfermarkt, stands at €7.5 million making Bournemouth’s €13 million bid a clear sign of their belief in his potential.
While Okoye is making waves at club level, his international career appears to have hit a pause. He was omitted from the Super Eagles’ squad for the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Although he was part of coach Eric Chelle’s 39-man provisional squad, he failed to make the final 23-man list. This exclusion has stirred conversations among fans and pundits, given his improved form and experience on the European stage.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, are looking to bolster their squad with quality additions that can strengthen their goalkeeping department ahead of next season. With the rigors of the Premier League demanding consistency and depth, securing a young, experienced, and agile keeper like Okoye could prove to be a smart long-term investment for the Cherries.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether the Nigerian star finally makes the switch to England’s top flight once again. If Bournemouth can wrap up the deal, Okoye could soon find himself back on the radar of the Super Eagles coaching staff potentially reigniting his international career just in time for Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
