Genoa Plot Summer Swoop For Nigerian Defender, Alebiosu

Serie A outfit Genoa have rekindled their pursuit of Blackburn Rovers’ right-sided defender Ryan Alebiosu, following a rejected winter approach for the 24-year-old Nigeria international.

The Italian side, eager to bolster their defensive ranks ahead of the new campaign, had tabled a €5 million ($5.4m) offer for Alebiosu during the January transfer window.

However, Blackburn, then fighting to secure their Championship survival, promptly turned down the bid, choosing to retain the former Arsenal academy product for the crucial second half of the 2025/26 season.

Now, with their second-tier status mathematically assured, Rovers are reportedly open to negotiations.

According to Italian transfer specialist outlet Tuttomercato, Genoa will make another attempt when the summer window reopens, and a proposal matching the previous €5 million valuation could prove sufficient to prise Alebiosu away from Ewood Park.

The full-back, who has earned senior caps for the Super Eagles, enjoyed a productive 2025/26 campaign despite Blackburn’s mid-table finish.

He featured in 41 league matches for the Blue and Whites, contributing one goal and five assists – a respectable return for a defender known more for his explosive pace and defensive diligence than prolific attacking output.

Alebiosu’s versatility to operate as either a traditional right-back or a wing-back fits Genoa’s tactical system, and the Ligurian club sees him as an affordable, athletic upgrade for their flank.

For Blackburn, selling the Nigeria international would represent a chance to recoup a healthy fee for a player originally developed in North London, while also freeing up wage space for summer reinforcements.

Should the deal materialise, Alebiosu would become the latest in a growing line of Nigerian talents to test themselves in Serie A, following the footsteps of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and fellow defender Troost-Ekong.