Bologna Consider Move For Nigerian Forward Orban

Bologna are keeping a close watch on Nigerian striker Gift Orban as they look to strengthen their attacking options in the upcoming transfer window.

The 23-year-old is seen as a more budget-friendly alternative to several pricier targets on the Serie A club’s radar.

As reported by Transferfeed, Bologna are tracking Orban, who is currently on loan at Hellas Verona from Bundesliga side TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. He is expected to return to his parent club once the season ends.

“Bologna is monitoring Gift Orban as a more accessible option for their attack, while the club is also evaluating more expensive targets,” Transferfeed stated.

The outlet also noted that Orban’s price tag would be within reach for the Italian side, adding: “Orban, who had a complicated season with Verona, is valued at approximately 8 to 10 million euros.”

Despite a difficult campaign, Orban finished as Verona’s top scorer with seven league goals in 28 appearances, though his form has dipped in recent months.

The Nigerian forward joined Verona on a season-long loan last summer after struggling for playing time in Germany, but has now been left out of the squad for the last four matches, including the clash against Inter Milan.

His future at Verona looks uncertain, with the club opting not to make the loan permanent following a challenging spell both on and off the pitch.

Italian reports suggest disciplinary issues played a role, including an ongoing investigation into an incident involving Orban and a fan after a 1-0 defeat to AC Milan earlier in the season.

Although he ended the campaign as Verona’s leading scorer, Orban could not prevent the team from slipping into the relegation zone. He has also endured a nine-match goal drought in league play.

According to German outlet BILD, Verona will not trigger their purchase option, meaning Orban is set to return to Hoffenheim this summer.

He remains under contract with the Bundesliga club until 2029, leaving them to decide his long-term future after a loan spell that produced mixed results.

Orban first gained widespread recognition during his time at Belgian side Gent, where he scored 32 goals over two seasons before moving to Lyon and later Hoffenheim.