The Grigiorossi have been on Dessers’ heels in recent weeks, but they are also close to securing a move for another player of Nigerian descent
Newly-promoted Serie A side Cremonese are close to sealing a move for Nigeria-eligible defender Emmanuel Aiwu from Rapid Vienna.
Aiwu spent most of his formative years at Austrian second-tier side Admira Wacker, and he later joined up with Bundesliga side Rapid Vienna last year.
The versatile 21-year-old quickly became an integral part of the setup in Vienna. Aiwu made 36 appearances for the Grün-Weißen, nicking two goals and two assists.
Aiwu’s displays have attracted attention from newly-promoted Serie A side Cremonese, who are also in hot pursuit of Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers.
According to Football Italia, Cremonese are close to completing a transfer for the Austria-born defender.
Aiwu is naturally a center-back, but he can play at right-back and defensive midfield positions.
If the deal goes through, the 21-year-old could provide Cremonese coach Massimiliano Alvini with a variety of options in defense next season. And Aiwu would be joining David Okereke as the second player of Nigerian descent in the club.
Aiwu is of Nigerian descent, but he currently plays for the Austrian youth team. However, he could still switch allegiances to Nigeria as per FIFA rules.