Atletico Madrid have joined Manchester United and other English Premier League clubs in the race to sign Nigerian-born defender Honest Ahanor.
18-year-old Ahanor has emerged as one of the most sought-after young centre-backs in Europe ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Spanish capital club have intensified their interest in the Atalanta defender as they look to strengthen their back line.
“Atlético de Madrid have stepped up their monitoring of Honest Ahanor, the promising Nigerian defender currently playing for Atalanta,” Fichajes stated.
Ahanor has enjoyed a rapid rise since joining Atalanta from Genoa last summer, establishing himself as one of the brightest prospects in Serie A.
The teenager has accumulated nearly 1,500 minutes in 24 appearances across all competitions in the 2025/26 season, including outings in the UEFA Champions League.
Manchester United are among several Premier League clubs tracking his development, with Tottenham and Newcastle also credited with strong interest.
“Manchester United, Tottenham, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest have all dispatched scouts to compile detailed reports on his progress,” Fichajes added, highlighting the growing competition for his signature.
United’s interest comes amid doubts over Harry Maguire’s future at Old Trafford, with the England international entering the final six months of his contract. Newcastle are monitoring the situation as Fabian Schär faces an uncertain future, while Tottenham are weighing defensive options amid speculation surrounding Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
Ahanor’s contract with Atalanta reportedly includes a release clause in the region of €50m to €65m per Fichajes, a figure that could shape negotiations in what is expected to be a competitive transfer battle.
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