Uncertainty continues to swirl around Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye as Udinese begin searching for potential replacements ahead of the new Serie A season, Soccernet.ng reports.
Despite extending the contract of head coach Kosta Runjaic until 2027, Udinese’s goalkeeping situation has become increasingly unstable.
Okoye, who impressed last season, now faces a potential four-year ban after being formally referred by the FIGC Prosecutor’s Office in a match-fixing investigation.
According to the FIGC Prosecutor’s Office led by Giuseppe Chinè, Okoye is accused of sporting misconduct following suspicious betting patterns around his yellow card during the Lazio-Udinese clash on March 11, 2024.
Per Gazzetta, the Nigerian goalkeeper was cautioned for time-wasting in the 63rd minute while Udinese were still leading. This situation is now under intense scrutiny.
The investigation, triggered by an unusual volume of bets placed on Okoye receiving a yellow card, unearthed a meeting between the goalkeeper and one of the bettors—allegedly the owner of the “Biffi” restaurant, known for its connections to players.
This meeting reportedly involved a discussion about the incident in question. Prosecutors believe the caution was a deliberate act aimed at manipulating the outcome of bets, and Okoye could face a disqualification of up to four years if found guilty.
Udinese Already Eyeing Alternatives
With Okoye’s future uncertain and backup goalkeeper Sava not yet deemed ready, Mondo Udinese reports that Udinese have identified Uruguayan and Sporting Lisbon goalkeeper Franco Israel as a potential replacement.
Franco Israel, who previously played for Juventus Next Gen, is reportedly on the club’s shortlist.
The club has also been active in the youth market, making a €1.5 million bid for 18-year-old Benevento prospect Alessandro Nunziante, although the offer was turned down by the Campania side.
As the legal clouds gather over Okoye, Udinese’s swift transfer activity suggests the Serie A outfit may already be planning for life without their Nigerian shot-stopper.