Transfers: Parma ready to move for Nigerian defender being courted by Italy

Parma are reportedly eyeing a January move for Leicester City defender Caleb Okoli, just months after the Italian youth international joined the Foxes, Soccernet.ng reports.

According to respected journalist Nicoló Schira via Forza Parma, the Serie B side is keen to bring the 22-year-old back to Italy, a country where he honed his craft and rose to prominence.

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Okoli has made an immediate impact at Leicester since his summer move from Atalanta, featuring in 12 of the Foxes’ 19 Premier League games this season.

However, despite his contributions in England, speculation about a potential return to his country of birth has gathered pace, with Parma keen to bolster their defensive options.

Leicester City boss Ruud van Nistelrooy may however be reluctant to part ways with Okoli with the Foxes facing real relegation fears.

The 2016 Premier League champions have only won three league games this season and sit in 19th place with 14 points, two away from safety.

Okoli’s journey has been one of steady progression.

Okoli joined Atalanta’s youth setup in 2015, later representing the club in the UEFA Youth League.

Loan spells at SPAL and Cremonese in Serie B helped him develop his game, and by the 2022/23 season, he had broken into Atalanta’s senior squad, making his Serie A debut in a 2–0 win over Sampdoria.

His performances earned him a loan move to Frosinone before Leicester secured his services on a five-year deal in July 2024.

While Okoli has been reliable for the Foxes, the lure of a return to familiar surroundings could prove tempting.

On the international stage, Okoli remains at a crossroads.

Born in Italy to Nigerian parents, he has represented Italy’s youth teams, including the U21s. He was called up to the senior squad for UEFA Nations League matches in 2024 but did not feature, leaving the door open for Nigeria to swoop.