Transfer News Live: Nigerian defender signs for Leicester City

Transfer News Live: Nigerian defender signs for Leicester City

Hassan Abdulsalam 00:24 - 10.07.2024

The 22-year-old Okoli joined the Foxes on a five-year contract as the Foxes' began pre-season training.

Leicester City has added to their defensive ranks with the permanent signing of highly-rated Italian-born Nigerian defender Caleb Okoli.

The club announced on its website that the 22-year-old Okoli join the Foxes on a five-year deal, subject to Premier League and international clearance.

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Okoli will now join his Leicester City teammates for pre-season training as they prepare for their return to the Premier League.

Thrilled to join Leicester City

Expressing his excitement, Okoli spoke to Foxes Hub: "This feels like the perfect time for me to take a big step forward in my career.

"I'm incredibly happy with my decision to join Leicester City and I can't wait to get started in the Premier League. I'm here and feeling ready to contribute to the team."

Okoli elaborated on his decision to join the club, "The Premier League is the best league in the world, and Leicester City is a fantastic and important club.

This opportunity to combine these two aspects was just too good to pass up. I'm here to showcase my abilities in the Premier League."

Who is Okoli?

Born in Vicenza, Italy, Okoli began his journey with Atalanta in 2015. He made his mark by winning the National Youth Super Cup with the club's U19 team in 2019.

Italian-born Nigerian defender Caleb Okoli.

Loan spells at SPAL in Serie B and Cremonese in Serie B followed, where he gained valuable experience.

Okoli's return to Atalanta in 2022 saw him make his Serie A debut in a winning performance against Sampdoria.

He went on to make 17 appearances for the Nerazzurri, contributing to their fifth-place finish and qualification for the UEFA Europa League.

Loan Success and International Recognition

Further honing his skills, Okoli spent the 2023/24 season on loan at newly promoted Serie A side Frosinone.

He impressed with 37 appearances across all competitions, solidifying his reputation as a promising young defender.

He has also represented Italy at U19, U20, and U21 levels.

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