Mercato: Sevilla negotiating George Ilenikhena loan deal with Al-Ittihad

Sevilla FC is making progress in the George Ilenikhena case. The Andalusian club is negotiating with Al-Ittihad to secure a loan deal with a purchase option for the 19-year-old Nigerian striker. According to ABC Sevilla, talks are ongoing and the player is eager to return to European football.

Sevilla is looking to bolster its attacking options ahead of the start of La Liga, and Ilenikhena is a separate target from Robbie Ure, whose signing has already been completed. The Nigerian could therefore become the second addition to Sevilla's offensive lineup.

A challenging season in Saudi Arabia

Ilenikhena is coming off a rather unconvincing first spell at Al-Ittihad. Signed for around €33 million, he only featured in six official matches for the Saudi club, five of those as a substitute. This limited game time explains his desire to reignite his career in Europe.

Despite being just 19, the striker already boasts significant experience. Born in France and a Nigerian international, he first made a name for himself at a young age with Antwerp in Belgium. During the 2023-2024 season, he netted 14 goals across all competitions for the Belgian side, including several in the league and Champions League.

His performances caught the eye of AS Monaco, who signed him in the summer of 2024. In the Principality, Ilenikhena continued his development, notably scoring in the Champions League and becoming one of the youngest goalscorers in the club's history in the competition.

Sevilla looking to revive the young striker

The Sevilla project could provide the right environment for him to regain consistency. At 19, Ilenikhena is still regarded as a high-potential forward, capable of playing as a central striker thanks to his speed, strength, and sharpness in open spaces.

After a virtually blank season in terms of playing time in Saudi Arabia, a return to Europe now looks like a prime opportunity for the Nigerian. Sevilla hopes to reach an agreement with Al-Ittihad to get him back on European pitches as soon as possible.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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