Lookman lobbies Atlanta defender to pick Nigeria ahead of Italy

Ademola-Lookman-Atalanta-4

Ademola Lookman

Nigeria international striker, Ademola Lookman had been mandated by Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle to convince young Atalanta defender, Honest Ahanor to commit his international future to the senior national team of Nigeria, OwnGoalNigeria.com can exclusively reveal.

Chelle was made aware of the progress of the 17 year old early this season, and the fact that he isn’t eligible to play for Italy despite the fact that he was born there. He has to wait until he turns 18 before he can get an Italian passport.

In a bid to take advantage of the situation, Chelle from what we exclusively gathered asked Lookman to gauge the interest of the fast growing defender in switching to Nigeria, before formally making an approach.

Ahanor has played in four Serie A games and if all goes according to plan, the idea of Chelle is for him to be a part of the AFCON where he intends to blood in a couple of youngsters particularly in defence.

Even though head coach of Italy Gennaro Gattuso confirmed he is keeping a close tab on the defender, the camp of Nigeria is confident that it’s in pole position to get his international future if the Super Eagles qualify for the World Cup.

Breaking news & top stories

Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper

Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.

Breaking news & top stories

Follow The Sun Newspaper

Get live updates & exclusive stories delivered straight to your phone.

Breaking news & top stories

Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper

Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.