Venezia make record €16m move for Nigeria striker Akor Adams

Venezia have announced the signing of Nigerian striker Akor Adams in what is the most expensive transfer in the Italian club’s history, as they prepare for their return to Serie A in the 2026-27 season.

The 24-year-old joins from Sevilla FC on a long-term deal running until 30 June 2030, with Venezia confirming that they have committed to an unprecedented financial package to bring him to the Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo.

The transfer is worth €16m, with additional performance-related bonuses agreed between the clubs.

Club-record deal to mark Serie A comeback

Back in the Italian top flight after winning promotion, Venezia have moved aggressively in the market to strengthen their squad and signal their ambitions to stay in Serie A.

The club said on its social media channels that Adams has put pen to paper on a contract that ties him to the Lagunari for four seasons beyond their comeback campaign.

The fee eclipses any previous sum paid by Venezia, underlining the importance placed on the Nigerian international as a key figure in their attack.

Impressive spell in Spain

Adams arrives in Italy after a strong campaign with Sevilla in La Liga.

The former Montpellier forward scored 10 goals and provided three assists across 36 appearances in all competitions last season, enhancing his reputation as a powerful and effective centre-forward.

His performances in Spain have seen his market valuation rise. According to Transfermarkt, Adams is currently valued at €15m – slightly below the fee Venezia have agreed to pay, reflecting the premium the Italians are willing to invest for his services and long-term potential.

Wages and profile

During his time at Sevilla, Adams earned an annual salary of €1.88m (approximately 1,222,000,000 CFA francs).

The Nigerian international is expected to be one of the higher earners in the Venezia squad as the club seeks to build a competitive team capable of consolidating its status in the top division.

Adams, who first made his name in European football with Montpellier in France’s Ligue 1, now faces a fresh challenge in Serie A, where Venezia will hope his physical presence and eye for goal can translate into crucial points in their battle for survival.

Further details of his presentation and pre-season plans are expected to be announced by the club in the coming days.