AFCON Breakthrough Puts Super Eagles Defender On Radar Of Top European Clubs

AFCON Breakthrough Puts Super Eagles Defender On Radar Of Top European Clubs

By Our Reporter 

Ryan Alebiosu’s breakthrough at the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria has sparked growing interest from clubs across Germany, Italy and England, following a series of impressive performances for both club and country, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Blackburn Rovers right-back is being tracked by several European sides ahead of the January transfer window, with Everton, Wolfsburg and Genoa among the clubs monitoring his situation, according to a report by ESPN.

Alebiosu, 24, has enjoyed a strong first half of the Championship season and carried that form into AFCON 2025 in Morocco, where he has emerged as one of the Super Eagles’ understated success stories during the group stage.

Everton and Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg are understood to be leading the race for his signature, while Serie A clubs Genoa and Sassuolo have also conducted background checks regarding his availability. Although no formal bids are expected while the defender remains on international duty, his performances have firmly placed him on the radar of several top European sides.

The London-born defender, who switched international allegiance from England to Nigeria last year, made his full Super Eagles debut in the 3–1 group-stage victory over Uganda. He played the entire match, delivering a composed and assured display at right-back.

However, Alebiosu will miss Nigeria’s Round of 16 clash against Mozambique on Monday after sustaining a deep cut to his right leg during the Uganda encounter, an injury that required hospital treatment. Initial concerns suggested he could be sidelined for up to a month, but updated medical assessments indicate the setback is less serious than first feared.

A product of Arsenal’s academy, which he joined at the age of eight, Alebiosu turned professional in 2020 and gained senior experience with Crewe Alexandra, Kilmarnock and Belgian side KV Kortrijk before signing for Blackburn Rovers last summer on a three-year contract, with an option for an additional year.

His move to Ewood Park has proven successful. Alebiosu has made 20 Championship appearances this season, scoring once, and has been one of Blackburn’s most consistent performers despite a difficult campaign that has left the club 20th in the table, three points above the relegation zone.

Currently valued at around £4 million, Alebiosu’s stock has risen sharply following his AFCON exposure, with interested clubs expected to intensify their pursuit once the tournament concludes.