Sevilla plot move for Nigerian-born striker George Ilenikhena

Sevilla are working on a deal to sign Nigerian-born striker George Ilenikhena as they seek to reinforce their attack ahead of the new LaLiga season.

The Spanish club are reportedly exploring a loan move for the 19-year-old, who has already etched his name into Champions League history despite his young age.

According to ABC, Sevilla have identified Ilenikhena as an attacking option and are now working on a possible agreement with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad.

The forward is also attracting interest elsewhere, with Premier League side West Ham United and German club Schalke 04 reportedly monitoring his situation.

Ilenikhena’s willingness to return to European football could give Sevilla encouragement in their pursuit of the highly rated teenager.

Champions League history-maker

Ilenikhena became the youngest Nigerian-born player to score in the Champions League when he struck for Antwerp against Barcelona on December 13, 2023.

The then-17-year-old scored the decisive goal in Antwerp’s thrilling 3-2 victory over the Catalan giants, producing a defining moment in the early stages of his career.

That goal underlined his potential on one of European football’s biggest stages and helped establish Ilenikhena as one of the continent’s promising young forwards.

His development subsequently earned him a move to Monaco before Al-Ittihad secured his services in February 2026.

Six appearances in Saudi Arabia

Ilenikhena’s first months in Saudi Arabia, however, have not produced the regular playing time he would have hoped for.

The teenager made six appearances for Al-Ittihad after joining the Jeddah-based club but started only one match.

With European football now potentially available again, Ilenikhena is reportedly open to a return to the continent just months after leaving France.

That could prove significant for Sevilla as they attempt to negotiate a loan agreement for a player who remains contracted to Al-Ittihad until the end of the 2028-29 season.

A move to Spain would give Ilenikhena the opportunity to regain regular playing time while continuing his development in one of Europe’s major leagues.

Sevilla looking to reshape attack

The potential arrival of Ilenikhena comes as Sevilla continue to reshape their attacking options.

Akor Adams left the Spanish club for Venezia last month, while another Super Eagles forward, Chidera Ejuke, is heavily linked with a move away before the transfer window closes.

Sevilla’s interest in Ilenikhena therefore reflects their desire to add youthful attacking depth, while potentially giving the Nigerian-born forward an opportunity to revive his European trajectory.

At just 19, the striker already has a Champions League record to his name and could now have another chance to make his mark in European football.