AS Monaco have made a major signing by acquiring 17-year-old Nigerian-born George Ilenikhena from Royale Antwerp for a hefty €20 million.
The young talent has had an impressive season in Belgium, scoring 14 goals in 50 appearances, which caught the attention of Monaco.
Although born in Lagos, Ilenikhena was raised in France. He is the latest Nigerian player to join Monaco, adding to the club’s tradition of notable Nigerian talents.
Meanwhile, previous reports had indicated that Manchester United had shown strong interest in signing the young forward.
The INEOS chairman has expressed a desire to revamp United’s transfer policy by focusing on the development of promising young players.
Ilenikhena’s signing was a clear indication of this strategy, as he was a key target for the club ahead of the summer transfer window.
In addition, Belgian football journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported that the Red Devils aimed to sign the youngster for around €20 million (£17m/$22m) when the transfer market reopens.
However, AS Monaco have reportedly swooped in and hijacked the player, who is a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also confirmed this on his X page, stating: “AS Monaco agree deal to sign 2006-born talent George Ilenikhena, here we go!”
The agreement, pending a medical examination, marks a significant move for the young Nigerian forward who has impressed with his performance in the Belgian Pro League.
Romano added: “Deal in place with Royal Antwerp for a fee around €20m, medical tests booked — all set to be completed this week.”
His fast-paced, skillful playing style and knack for scoring goals have led to comparisons with French footballer Kylian Mbappe, whom Ilenikhena looks up to.
Ilenikhena’s transfer to Monaco continues the tradition of Nigerian players, like Victor Ikpeba and Henry Onyekuru, who have previously played for the club.
Who is George Ilenikhena?
George Ilenikhena is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Belgian Pro League club Royal Antwerp.
The 17-year-old George was born in Lagos, Nigeria, but he arrived in France aged 3. He grew up in Antony, Hauts-de-Seine.
His club career
Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Ilenikhena moved to France as a youngster, making him eligible to represent both the French and Nigerian national teams.
Having made his way through all of the youth levels of the amateur Antony Football Evolution, George Ilenikhena joined the professional club of Amiens that was just relegated to Ligue 2, for the 2021–22 season.
During that season he scored a total of 24 goals for the under-17 national side, also playing and scoring in the Coupe Gambardella.
In the summer of 2023, he made a €6 million switch from Amiens SC to Antwerp where he has already left a strong impression, netting 14 goals in 50 games during the 2023-24 campaign.
Can George Ilenikhena play for Nigeria?
Having represented France at youth levels since 2021, Ilenikhena can change his international allegiance to Nigeria, which adds an interesting element to his prospects.
What’s next?
The 17-year-old will have his medical exam and will be introduced as Monaco’s newest player later this week.
