Transfer Boost: Kingsley Ehizibue Joins Genoa As Victor Orakpo Moves To Turkey

Nigerian right-back Kingsley Ehizibue has completed a move to Serie A club Genoa ahead of the 2026/27 season, returning to Italy after his spell with Udinese.

The 31-year-old defender has signed a multi-year contract with Genoa and is expected to begin training with his new teammates in the coming days. The club confirmed that he underwent his medical examinations before completing the move.

Ehizibue spent the previous four seasons with Udinese, where he established himself as an experienced defender in the Italian top flight. His latest transfer gives him another opportunity to continue his Serie A career with Genoa.

The Nigerian-born player revealed that he had previously turned down an opportunity to join Genoa several years ago but is now delighted to represent the club.

According to Ehizibue, his perspective has changed since that earlier decision, and he is pleased to have another opportunity to defend Genoa’s colours.

Genoa’s Chief of Football, Diego Lopez, also expressed confidence in the defender’s ability to make an immediate contribution, highlighting his pace, physical qualities, experience and versatility.

Meanwhile, Nigerian forward Victor Orakpo has secured a move to Turkish Super Lig side Gençlerbirliği from French club Nice. The 20-year-old has joined the Turkish outfit on loan until the end of the 2026/27 season, with an option to buy included in the agreement.

The transfer represents another opportunity for Orakpo to gain regular first-team experience after previous loan spells in France with Montpellier and Nancy.

Orakpo joined Nice in January 2024 and has made five appearances for the French club’s senior team. He will now continue his development in Turkey as he looks to establish himself at senior level.

The two transfers mark fresh chapters for the Nigerian players, with Ehizibue remaining in Serie A with Genoa while Orakpo begins a new challenge in Turkey with Gençlerbirliği.