Spanish giants intensify pursuit of Atalanta’s 18-year-old centre-back as Premier League clubs circle ahead of the summer transfer window.

Atlético Madrid have entered the race to sign highly rated Nigerian-born defender Honest Ahanor, joining several English Premier League clubs ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.

Ahanor, 18, has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after young centre-backs following an impressive breakthrough season with Serie A side Atalanta.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Madrid-based club has intensified its monitoring of the teenage defender as it seeks to reinforce its defensive options.

“Atlético de Madrid have stepped up their monitoring of Honest Ahanor, the promising Nigerian defender currently playing for Atalanta,” the report stated.

Since joining Atalanta from Genoa last summer, Ahanor has quickly established himself as one of the brightest defensive prospects in Italy. He has already racked up close to 1,500 minutes across 24 appearances in all competitions during the 2025/26 season, including outings in the UEFA Champions League.

Manchester United are among the Premier League clubs closely tracking his development, while Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are also reported to have strong interest in the youngster.

Reports suggest that Ahanor’s contract includes a release clause valued between €50 million and €65 million — a figure likely to shape negotiations in what is expected to be a fierce transfer battle.

Atlético’s technical department reportedly believes securing a defender of Ahanor’s calibre could provide long-term stability at the heart of their defence.

Internationally, the teenage star has been cleared to represent Italy at senior level and is expected to switch his international registration from Nigeria to Italy. Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso previously revealed that Ahanor’s lack of an Italian passport had delayed his selection.

With elite clubs circling, Ahanor’s future is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched stories of the summer transfer window.