Maduka Okoye has moved to quash fresh speculation about his future, insisting he is entirely focused on Udinese despite recent reports linking him with Juventus and other European clubs.
Key takeaways
- Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye says he remains fully committed to the Serie A club.
- The 26-year-old produced a strong 2025/26 league run, recording 10 clean sheets in 30 appearances.
- Okoye insists his attention is on his current team, despite growing transfer interest.
- He has returned for pre-season and attended Udinese’s new kit reveal.
- Okoye is set to compete with Stanley Nwabali for the Super Eagles’ starting spot during the 2027 AFCON qualifiers in September.
- Udinese open their Coppa Italia campaign against Padova on August 15.
Okoye plays down transfer talk
The Nigerian international, who turned 26 this year, is coming off an impressive 2025/26 Serie A campaign with Udinese. He helped anchor a defensive unit that delivered results as the club finished in the top half of the table under coach Kosta Runjaic.
Okoye’s form has drawn attention both in Italy and back home, with performances for Udinese and the Nigeria national team prompting talk of potential moves. However, the goalkeeper says he is not looking beyond his current contract.
“I still have ambitions in my career, but at the moment my focus is completely on Udinese,” Okoye said. “I’m happy with my football and I’m not overthinking the future. In this sport, things can change fast, but until then I’m 100 percent committed to being a Udinese player.”
Pre-season update and Super Eagles competition
Okoye has returned to training for pre-season following his summer break. He was also on hand for the unveiling of Udinese’s new kit, showing he is already fully integrated into the club’s preparations for the coming campaign.
“I’m pleased to be back. We’re excited to be here with the supporters, and we can’t wait to get going,” he added.
With the Super Eagles’ schedule picking up, Okoye is also expected to contend with Stanley Nwabali for the number one jersey during the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. That battle is set to take place in September.
Udinese’s next fixture
Udinese will kick off their season in the Coppa Italia against Padova on August 15, marking the start of their run in domestic cup competition.
