Atalanta eye Empoli’s young midfielder on the radar of Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle

Atalanta are keeping close tabs on Nigerian midfielder Tino Anjorin as they prepare for a potential midfield reshuffle in the summer transfer window, Footynaija.com reports.

The 23-year-old, who has impressed in his debut Serie A campaign with Empoli, has caught the eye of the Bergamo club, who are planning for the future as they anticipate departures in midfield.

Brazilian star Éderson is expected to attract significant offers from top European clubs at the end of the season, while Marten de Roon, who turned 34 recently, is entering the twilight of his career. Atalanta are looking for a player with Serie A experience, the ability to contribute immediately, and long-term development potential — qualities Anjorin possesses.

The former England youth international, who has also attracted interest from Juventus has featured in 17 league matches this season, registering three assists.

‼️BREAKING‼️

Juventus is keeping an eye on Anjorin from Empoli as a potential replacement if Fagioli leaves.@DiMarzio | #Juventus pic.twitter.com/wARiqZvItu

— Bianconeri Zone (@BianconeriZone) January 31, 2025

His performances have put him on the radar of Atalanta’s scouting team, with the club viewing him as a versatile option capable of deputising for De Roon and Éderson while also developing into a key player for the future, according to Il Giorno.

Anjorin’s football journey has been an eventful one. A product of Chelsea’s academy, he rose through the youth ranks, making his first-team debut in 2019. He featured in various competitions for the Blues, including the Champions League and FA Cup, before embarking on a series of loan moves. His stints included time at Lokomotiv Moscow, Huddersfield Town, and Portsmouth before he made a permanent switch to Empoli last summer.

Eligible to represent both England and Nigeria, Anjorin played for England at under-17, under-18, and under-19 levels but remains uncapped at senior level.

However, a call-up to the Super Eagles could be imminent. Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, has made it clear that he is actively scouting players across Europe to bolster his squad, particularly in midfield and defence.

With Anjorin’s stock rising in Italy, a move to Atalanta and a maiden Nigeria call-up could make 2025 a defining year in his career.