Brighton want Nigeria-eligible defender to replace Manchester City target

The youngster had an impressive campaign with the Bianconeri, and his performances have attracted interest from home and abroad

Brighton are keeping tabs on Nigeria-eligible left-back Destiny Udogie as they look to replace Manchester City-linked Marc Cucurella if he leaves.

Udogie joined Udinese on loan from Hellas Verona last summer, and he gave a good impression of himself. The 19-year-old was one of the most consistent players on the team, scoring five goals and assisting three in 35 Serie A appearances.

Udogie’s exploits did not go unnoticed, as there have been reports linking him to some of the top sides in Italy. According to Transfermarkt, former champions Inter Milan are close to securing Udogie’s services.

However, Italian transfer specialist Gianluigi Longari reports that Brighton could swoop in for the former Hellas Verona man, as their first-choice left-back Cucurella could leave amidst interests from Manchester City.

Udogie will join Udinese permanently in July after Bianconeri paid Hellas Verona €4million for his services, and securing his services could be a tough ask. Still, a decent fee would be enough to soften Udinese’s stance.

Udogie was born in Italy, and he has already featured for the youth teams. He has also been called up to the senior squad. Nonetheless, according to FIFA rules, the 19-year-old can still play for Nigeria because of his Nigerian parents.