Maduka Okoye opens up on failed Inter Milan move, vows to stay focused at Udinese

By Saheed Afolabi

Nigeria international Maduka Okoye has opened up about his failed move to Italian giants Inter Milan, citing Udinese’s €15 million price tag as the reason behind the deal falling through.

The talented goalkeeper, who enjoyed an impressive season with Udinese last year, attracted significant interest, including from Inter Milan. Despite the setback, Okoye remains focused on his current club, emphasizing that he is happy in Italy and committed to helping Udinese climb the Serie A standings.

“The interest from Inter was concrete, but Udinese were asking for €15m to buy me,” Okoye said, as quoted by Transfer Markt. “It would’ve been a dream, but I don’t regret how things went. I am happy to still be at this club and to be the Number 1 here. If I keep working hard and maintain consistency, opportunities could come again.”

The Super Eagles shot-stopper also revealed that he has no intentions of leaving Italy anytime soon, expressing a desire to stay with Udinese for the long haul. “I want to stay in Italy, this is a choice I’ve made. I like this land, the people, and the atmosphere. I’m happy in Udinese and want to take the club as high as possible.”

Okoye’s focus is firmly on Udinese, who are currently fifth in the Serie A standings with 13 points from seven matches. He ruled out any potential moves away from the club in the upcoming transfer window, stating, “I don’t see myself anywhere else in January. My attention is all on Udinese. Finishing the season here, under the guidance of [coach] Runjaic, is very important for me.”