Maduka Okoye completes permanent switch to Udinese

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has completed a move to Italian Serie A outfit Udinese, signing a four-year deal with the side after leaving Watford.

Former Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper Okoye made a name for himself playing for Sparta Rotterdam before joining Watford in 2022. The 23-year-old endured a torrid time in England where he amassed a grand total of two appearances in the 2022-23 season, one in the Carabao Cup and the other in the FA Cup. His lack of minutes cost him his place in the national team, with Adebayo Adeleye quickly emerging as the new national team goalkeeper.

Watford axed Okoye from their squad for the 2023-24 season three weeks ago, and their sister club Udinese stepped in to save his career. He will compete with Marco Silvestri and teenage goalkeeper Edoardo Piana for a place in the starting XI for Udinese.

Okoye will play alongside fellow Nigeria international Isaac Success at the DACIA Arena from this season, and will be keen to win back his spot on the national team.