Italian Serie A powerhouses AC Milan, Genoa, and Cagliari have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Nigerian rising star Chukwubuikem Ikwuemesi, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 21-year-old forward garnered attention with his remarkable performances in the recently concluded season. He showcased his skills by scoring nine goals and providing five assists in 32 games for NK Celje, propelling the team to a second-place finish in the Slovenian PrvaLiga.
Initially, reports suggested that AC Milan, Genoa, and Cagliari were eyeing a move for the talented youngster, attracted by his power and proficiency on the field.
However, those rumours were called into question by Soccernet.ng.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the Italian clubs' interest, Ikwuemesi would have relished joining fellow countrymen Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman in the prestigious Italian top flight.
Unfortunately for the Nigerian forward, his aspirations will have to be put on hold for now.
According to TMW, Riga FC, three-time champions of Latvia, have emerged as the frontrunners in securing Ikwuemesi's signature. It is believed that a deal between the player and the Latvian club is in its final stages.
Meanwhile, AC Milan have shifted their focus to another Nigerian winger, Samuel Chukwueze of Villarreal.
Negotiations between the Italian giants and the Spanish club are ongoing, but a resolution is yet to be reached.
AC Milan may hesitate to meet Villarreal's steep asking price for Chukwueze, leading them to explore alternative options.
As the Chukwueze deal hangs in the balance, Milan is already devising a contingency plan, preparing for a potential plan B should the desired transfer fail to materialize.
The Italian club remains determined to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season, and they are actively exploring avenues to secure talented reinforcements.
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