Arsenal are reportedly leading the pursuit of Nigerian-born Italian defender Honest Ahanor, with the Gunners considering a £30m summer bid for the 18-year-old centre-back.

The north London club face stiff competition from Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham, Newcastle, and Spanish giants Atletico Madrid, all keen on one of Europe’s most promising teenage defenders.

Arsenal see Ahanor as a long-term defensive investment, aiming to develop him through their youth-focused pathway, following in the footsteps of Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri.

Manchester City are adopting a similar approach, while Chelsea could sign him with an immediate loan back to Atalanta to continue his development.

Atletico Madrid’s coach Diego Simeone values his anticipation and dueling strength, with club reports suggesting Ahanor “could anchor their defence for over a decade.”

Ahanor has logged nearly 1,500 minutes in 24 appearances across all competitions this season for Atalanta, including UEFA Champions League outings.

His composure, athleticism, and tactical intelligence have drawn comparisons to Italian legend Paolo Maldini.

Atalanta are reportedly reluctant to sell, but his release clause, estimated between €50m–€65m, sets the stage for a competitive transfer battle.

Internationally, Ahanor is eligible to represent both Nigeria and Italy. Previously registered under Nigeria due to immigration regulations, he has now reached 18 and is expected to switch allegiance to Italy at senior level.

Despite Nigeria’s attempts to retain him, sources indicate he is focused on an Italian international career.

As top Premier League and European clubs monitor his progress, Ahanor’s next move could define the future of his promising career.

Arsenal’s reported lead in negotiations highlights their ambition to strengthen their defense with world-class young talent ahead of the 2026–27 season.