Super Eagles striker Akor Adams has arrived in Italy to complete his move to Venezia, a transfer set to become the most expensive signing in the club’s history. The Newly promoted Serie A side reached full agreement with Sevilla on a deal worth 16 million euros, with a further 7 million euros in bonuses that could push the total package to 23 million euros.
Adams already agreed personal terms on a five year contract running until June 2030. He is currently completing his medical and the remaining paperwork before the move is officially announced.
Venezia’s pursuit of Adams intensified in early July when their sporting director, Filippo Antonelli, travelled to Spain for direct talks with Sevilla officials.
Venezia initially offered around 10 million euros, a bid Sevilla rejected while demanding up to 25 million euros for the striker. The two clubs eventually settled on the 16 million euro package after Sevilla’s financial situation, driven by the need to comply with La Liga’s regulations, forced them to lower their valuation.
Venezia also had to see off interest from Ligue 1 side Marseille, along with a late attempt from another French club, before securing Adams’ signature. The transfer represents a significant profit for Sevilla, who signed Adams from French club Montpellier for just 5.5 million euros in January 2025.
Adams enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in La Liga despite Sevilla’s difficult season overall. He finished as the club’s top scorer, netting 10 league goals and providing three assists, performances that played a key role in helping Sevilla avoid relegation.
His output convinced Venezia that he has what it takes to lead their attack as they prepare for life back in Serie A following promotion. The 26 year old previously built his career through Norway, with spells at Sogndal and Lillestrom, before his move to France and later Spain.
Adams’ move continues a long tradition of Nigerian players representing Venezia, with the club having fielded Nigerian talent across different eras of its history. Once completed, he will become one of the most expensive Nigerian footballers ever sold to an Italian club, sitting behind Victor Osimhen’s record breaking move to Napoli in 2020.
The transfer also strengthens Nigeria’s growing presence in Serie A ahead of the new season, with Adams expected to headline Venezia’s attack from his first campaign in Italian football. Adams is expected to complete his medical in the coming days before signing his contract and being unveiled as a Venezia player. He will then link up with Giovanni Stroppa’s squad ahead of pre season preparations for the new Serie A campaign.
Attention will then turn to how quickly Adams can adapt to Italian football, with expectations high given the size of the transfer fee. Venezia’s ability to build a competitive squad around him could prove decisive as the club fights to secure its place in Serie A after returning to the top flight.
