Scottish giants Rangers are facing fresh competition in the race to sign Super Eagles defender Ryan Alebiosu, with clubs from the Bundesliga and Serie A also showing strong interest this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.
Alebiosu enjoyed a breakthrough campaign after joining Blackburn Rovers from Belgian side Kortrijk last summer. The 24-year-old made 40 appearances in all competitions for Blackburn and was one of the club's standout performers during a difficult Championship season, helping the Rovers narrowly avoid relegation.
His impressive displays also earned him recognition from Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who included him in Nigeria's final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Alebiosu made his debut in the 3-1 win over Uganda in the final group-stage match, playing the full 90 minutes in an impressive display, with the country finishing the tournament with a record-extending ninth AFCON bronze medal.
Following his breakout season, speculation over his future has continued to grow, with several clubs monitoring his situation ahead of the new campaign.
Alebiosu: Bundesliga and Serie A clubs enter race for Super Eagles defender
According to Pete O'Rourke via BBC Sport, several clubs from Germany and Italy have now entered the race to sign the Super Eagles defender.
Alebiosu's performances last season have attracted much attention, with a number of European clubs looking to strengthen their defensive options before the start of the new season.
A move to either the Bundesliga or Serie A could offer the 24-year-old another important step in his development, with both leagues known for providing young defenders with opportunities to improve and compete at a high level.
The growing interest from Germany and Italy also complicates Rangers' pursuit. The Scottish club had identified Alebiosu as a leading candidate to replace long-serving captain James Tavernier, who brought an end to his 11-year stay at Ibrox this summer.
The Gers have been searching for reinforcements at right-back and were exploring the option of submitting an offer for Nigerian defender to add him to their squad for next season. However, they will now need to move quickly ahead of other suitors to gain ground in the race.
While Blackburn are under no pressure to sell with the Super Eagles right-back under contract until 2028, the Championship club will not stand in the way of an exit and are expected to consider offers in the region of £5 million.
If one of the interested clubs meet Blackburn's valuation, then Alebiosu could complete a move before the end of the transfer window and begin the next chapter of his career in one of Europe's top leagues.
