Nigerian connection set to grow as Udinese eye ex-Frankfurt target to join Maduka Okoye

Udinese are preparing a summer swoop for Nigerian striker Rafiu Durosinmi as they seek to reinforce their forward line ahead of the new Serie A campaign, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Friulian club have identified the 22-year-old Viktoria Plzeň star as a potential replacement for Lorenzo Lucca, whose departure to Napoli has left a void in the squad, according to Livesport.

Reports from Italy’s Messaggero Veneto suggest the Lagos-born forward is top of the list to lead Udinese’s attack next season. Durosinmi is valued at around €7 million as per Transfermarkt.

Durosinmi’s arrival would mark the continuation of a proud Nigerian tradition at Udinese. Over the years, Christian Obodo, Odion Ighalo, Uche Agbo, William Troost-Ekong, Isaac Success, and current goalkeeper Maduka Okoye have all worn the black and white stripes. Okoye, who joined from Watford in 2023, remains first choice between the sticks despite facing a potential betting-related suspension.

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Standing at 6 ft 4 in, Durosinmi offers a rare blend of power, aerial dominance, and intelligent link-up play. While primarily deployed as a centre-forward, his versatility allows him to operate on the flanks when needed. His relentless pressing and willingness to track back make him an all-round modern forward.

Durosinmi’s career began in Nigeria at Unique Football Academy and Box2Box FC before he moved to the Czech side MFK Karviná.

After impressing for their B team, he broke into the senior squad in the 2021/22 season, scoring three goals in 20 matches. Even though Karviná suffered relegation, Durosinmi’s performances caught the eye of Viktoria Plzeň, who signed him following a successful loan spell.

The 2023/24 season proved to be his breakout year, yielding nine goals and six assists in just 19 appearances across all competitions.

However, a knee ligament injury halted a proposed January move to Eintracht Frankfurt, as the Bundesliga side reportedly pulled out at the last minute over fitness concerns. He has also been previously linked with Besiktas and Lazio. 

Since returning to full fitness in early 2025, the Nigerian has been central to Plzeň’s plans, particularly as the club faces both domestic and European challenges. His departure would be a significant blow, especially after losing midfielder Pavel Šulc to Lyon earlier in the transfer window.

Udinese’s pursuit fits into a wider summer rebuild, with potential exits for Brenner, Simone Pafundi, and Iker Bravo. Club officials see Durosinmi not only as Lucca’s successor but also as a player who can grow into one of Serie A’s most complete strikers.

If the move materialises, Durosinmi will join Okoye as the only other Nigerian currently at the Dacia Arena, linking two compatriots with ambitions of helping Udinese climb the Serie A table.

Udinese’s contract with Viktoria Plzeň runs until June 2026.