Nigerian forward Gift Orban is set to join Serie A side Hellas Verona after a proposed move to French club Toulouse fell through.
The 23-year-old striker had been expected to complete a switch to Ligue 1, but negotiations between Toulouse and his parent club Hoffenheim broke down before reaching an agreement.
That collapse has opened the door for Verona, who have now secured the player on an initial loan deal.
According to reports in Germany, the Italian club will pay €1m for the loan, with an option to make the transfer permanent for €9m at the end of the season.
Orban’s arrival is seen as a major boost to Verona’s attacking options. The Nigerian is expected to partner Swedish forward Amin Sarr in attack, forming a strike partnership designed to sharpen the club’s offensive edge.
The move comes as something of a twist in Orban’s career path. Toulouse had been considered the frontrunners for his signature, with discussions progressing to an advanced stage.
However, failure to finalise terms with Hoffenheim forced the French club to step aside, allowing Verona to act decisively.
For Orban, the switch to Italy marks the beginning of a new chapter in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues. Verona, who have been looking to strengthen their forward line, will hope his pace and finishing instincts can make an immediate impact in Serie A.
The Nigerian striker first attracted wider European attention with his performances in Belgium before earning a move to Hoffenheim. Despite showing glimpses of his potential in Germany, his opportunities became limited, prompting speculation over his future during the summer transfer window.
Verona’s decision to structure the deal with a purchase option reflects both caution and ambition: the club can test Orban in Italian football without committing long-term finances, while also securing priority should he excel. For the player, it is a chance to establish himself in a top European league after a turbulent few months of transfer uncertainty.
Serie A has seen a resurgence of African talent in recent years, with several Nigerian players leaving their mark. Orban will now aim to add his name to that list by making a swift adjustment to Italian football.
His partnership with Amin Sarr could prove central to Verona’s campaign, particularly as the club looks to climb the table and secure stability in the division.
The circumstances of his transfer underline the unpredictability of modern football markets. What appeared a straightforward move to France was derailed at the final stages, only for an Italian side to capitalise almost immediately.
Verona’s quick intervention highlights the club’s awareness of opportunity and determination to strengthen ahead of the demanding Serie A season.
With the deal close to completion, Verona supporters will be eager to see how quickly Orban can adapt to his new surroundings and contribute to the team’s attacking play.
For the striker himself, Italy offers a fresh stage to reaffirm his credentials and reignite a career that many still believe holds significant promise.
