Cameroon weigh approach for Brian Madjo as Samuel Eto’o visit raises international questions

Cameroon could make a move for Aston Villa forward Brian Madjo after the 17-year-old reportedly indicated he would be open to representing the Indomitable Lions.

Madjo has been involved with England’s youth teams, but the teenager’s international background is unusually complex. Before joining England’s youth set-up, he had already played for Luxembourg’s senior side, meaning Cameroon would be the third country in contention for his international allegiance.

The report by Allez les Lions comes as Cameroon Football Federation president Samuel Eto’o is in England, prompting speculation that he could be preparing to discuss Madjo’s future with the player or his representatives. However, no meeting between Eto’o and the Aston Villa player has been confirmed.

Madjo attracted attention with an impressive and goalscoring display for Aston Villa in the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain. Despite that performance and the increasing interest surrounding his international future, he is under no pressure to make an immediate decision and can continue to assess how his club career develops.

England currently hold the advantage because Madjo has already been incorporated into their youth teams. The country can offer him a highly competitive environment, but the route into the senior side is likely to be difficult given the depth of attacking talent available to the England manager.

Cameroon may be able to offer a more direct path into senior international football, as well as a central role in a long-term project. The Indomitable Lions have previously persuaded several players with experience in England’s youth categories to choose Cameroon, including Jayden Ngwashi, William Gueke and Douka Nkoto.

That precedent could strengthen Cameroon’s case, but the federation will need to present Madjo with more than an appeal to his heritage. The 17-year-old is expected to want clarity over the role he could play, the opportunities available to him and how his development would be managed.

Madjo’s earlier decision to represent Luxembourg at senior level also suggests that the prospect of a place in a national team’s first-team squad alone may not be enough to determine his choice. Cameroon will therefore need to offer a credible sporting plan if it is to turn reported interest into a firm commitment.

Eto’o’s presence in England has added to the intrigue because of his profile and influence as the head of the Cameroon Football Federation. His standing could help persuade Madjo and those around him, although his trip does not necessarily indicate that a discussion with the player has been arranged.

For now, England remain in front, having already given Madjo a place within their youth structure. But until the forward makes a final decision about which country he wants to represent at senior level, Cameroon still have an opportunity to put forward their arguments.