Ruben Mel Akalé, son of former Ivorian international Kanga Akalé, has signed a three-year deal with Italian Serie A side Hellas Verona, bringing his time at LOSC Lille to an end.
The 18-year-old French-born midfielder departs the French club where he has been since the summer of 2022.
His move was confirmed by transfer expert Matteo Moretto, with Verona securing the services of one of Lille’s emerging youth talents.
Born on May 28, 2007, in Auxerre, Akalé has made a name for himself as a technically gifted and tactically flexible player, capable of operating both as an attacking midfielder and on the right flank.
Known for his vision, pace, and maturity beyond his years, the young talent is seen as a promising addition to Verona’s long-term project.
While Akalé did not feature for Lille’s senior team, his development within the club’s youth system caught the attention of several scouts across Europe.
Hellas Verona, determined to bolster their youth ranks while building a future-proof squad, made the decisive move to secure his signature ahead of the new season.
The Italian club has been keen to invest in emerging prospects, and Akalé’s arrival adds depth and potential creativity to their midfield options.
Verona believe the teenager has the qualities to make an impact in Serie A in the near future and are prepared to give him the platform to develop gradually in a competitive environment.
Akalé’s football lineage adds further intrigue to his transfer.
His father, Kanga Akalé, enjoyed a successful playing career in France and across Europe, representing the Ivory Coast at international level.
Ruben now has the opportunity to write his own story, beginning in Italy’s top flight.
The move marks a significant step in Akalé’s professional journey, as he takes on the challenge of adapting to a new league and a new football culture.
With a three-year contract in place, Hellas Verona are signalling their commitment to nurturing the young midfielder as part of their ongoing youth-first strategy.
As the 2025–2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on how quickly Ruben Akalé settles into his new surroundings and whether he can live up to the expectations that come with both his surname and his burgeoning potential.
Ruben Akalé al Verona, contratto (3+2) firmato proprio in questi minuti. https://t.co/S7EPRjvqb5 pic.twitter.com/OqDav2DMjh
— Matteo Moretto (@MatteMoretto) July 18, 2025
