Monaco secures 17-year-old Nigerian forward for €20m after breakout season with Antwerp

Ligue 1 giants AS Monaco have finalized a deal to sign Lagos-born 17-year-old talent George Ilenikhena, following his impressive season with Royale Antwerp, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Eagles-eligible forward joined the Belgian Pro League side from Amiens SC in the 2023 summer transfer window for a fee around €6 million.

The 2023-24 season proved to be a breakout year for Ilenikhena, as he scored 14 goals in 50 appearances across all competitions for Antwerp.

This remarkable performance attracted the attention of Monaco, who have now secured his signature for €20 million—subject to a medical examination—bringing the Nigerian-French forward back to France from the Bosuilstadion.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Ilenikhena moved to France as a child with his parents and has quickly risen through the ranks of European football.

His move to Monaco follows in the footsteps of Nigerian predecessors like Victor Ikpeba, Sani Kaita, Henry Onyekuru, and Elderson Echeijile, who have all donned the red and white of Monaco.

The young striker is an avid admirer of French star Kylian Mbappe and models his game after the now–Real Madrid forward. This influence is evident in Ilenikhena’s playing style, characterized by blistering pace, technical prowess, and a keen eye for goal.

Despite representing France at the youth level since his debut in 2021, Ilenikhena retains the option to switch his international allegiance to Nigeria in the future.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.

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With a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master’s Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.