Youngster Ikwuemesi joins Osimhen, Lookman in Serie A
Cuota
- With a statement on their official website, US Salernitana 1919 have announced the signing of Chukwubuikem Ikwuemesi.
- Ikwuemesi leaves Slovenia giants NK Celje and commits to a four-year permanent deal with Salernitana with the possibility of an extension for another year.
The deal's financial details have been kept under wraps, with the Italian side only confirming that the 22-year-old forward will wear the number 22 shirt this season.
Before finally deciding to join Salernitana, Ikwuemesi was also linked to AC Milan, Genoa, and Cagliari.
Latvia's top-flight club FC Riga were also close to getting a deal done for the exciting forward before negotiations broke down.
Ikwuemesi attracted suitors from half of the major leagues on the continent after a string of excellent displays in Slovenia last season.
The former Flying Eagles star found the back of the net nine times and provided another five assists for Celje during that campaign.
Even more impressively were his darting runs forward, eye-pleasing dribbles, and excellent hold-up plays.
These are qualities that the youngster will look to add to a Salernitana that struggled in front of goal last season. The Garnets finished in 15th position last term, and Ikwuemesi has vowed to help them retain their Serie A status again this term.
Ikwuemesi's arrival swells the number of Nigerian stars who have found a new home and excelling in Serie A.
Napoli's Victor Osimhen scored 26 league goals last term to claim the top scorer award, while Ademola Lookman was also among the division's top scorers.
Tyronne Ebuehi and Isaac Success were constant features for Empoli and Udinese, respectively.
Ikwuemesi could make his Serie A debut this weekend when Salernitana take on Jose Mourinho's AS Roma.