Wolfsburg, Genoa to battle Everton for AFCON 2025 star who dumped England for Nigeria

Ryan Alebiosu’s Africa Cup of Nations breakthrough with Nigeria has triggered growing interest from clubs in Germany, Italy and England, Soccernet.ng reports.

Everton, Wolfsburg and Genoa are among the top Wuropean clubs tracking the Blackburn Rovers defender ahead of the January transfer window, according to a report by ESPN.

The 24-year-old right-back is being closely monitored following an impressive first half of the Championship season and a strong international debut at AFCON 2025 in Morocco.

Alebiosu, who switched allegiance from England to Nigeria last year, has emerged as one of the Super Eagles’ quiet success stories in the group stage of the tournament.

Everton and Wolfsburg are understood to be leading the chase, while Serie A sides Genoa and Sassuolo have also made background checks on the player’s availability. Although no formal bids are expected while Alebiosu remains at AFCON, his performances have placed him firmly on the radar across Europe.

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Nigeria's Alebiosu: AFCON impact and injury setback

Alebiosu is currently with the Nigeria squad after helping the three-time African champions top Group C ahead of Tunisia and reach the last-16.

He made his full international debut in Nigeria’s 3–1 win over Uganda, playing the entire match and delivering a composed display at right-back.

However, he will miss Monday’s knockout tie against Mozambique after sustaining a deep cut to his right leg against Uganda, which required hospital treatment. Initial fears suggested the injury could rule him out for up to a month, but fresh medical updates indicate the setback is less serious than first thought.

With Nigeria expected to mount a deep run in the tournament, Alebiosu has chosen to remain with the squad in Morocco and could yet return should the Super Eagles reach the latter stages. The AFCON final is scheduled for January 18.

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Alebiosu joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of eight and turned professional in 2020. He later gained senior experience with Crewe Alexandra, Kilmarnock and Belgian side KV Kortrijk before signing for Blackburn last summer on a three-year deal, with an option for a further year.

His move to Ewood Park has proved a success. Alebiosu has made 20 Championship appearances this season, scoring once, and has been one of Blackburn’s most consistent performers during a challenging campaign that has left the club 20th in the table, three points above the relegation zone.

Valued at around £4 million, Alebiosu’s profile has risen sharply following his AFCON exposure, but interested clubs are expected to wait until after the tournament before stepping up their pursuit.