Exclusive: Brentford Make Contact to Sign Genoa Striker Jeff Ekhator

Genoa forward Jeff Ekhator, 19, is attracting interest from Brentford, Atalanta, Roma and Marseille with a potential €20–25m move in 2026. Betting angle: punters could favour Atalanta or Roma as likely destinations and consider backing Ekhator to score over 0.5 goals in his first season if he joins a club needing more firepower.

Jeff Ekhator Linked with Multiple Clubs as Genoa Set €20–25m Valuation

Jeff Ekhator, the 19-year-old Genoa forward, is drawing attention from clubs across Europe as he emerges as a viable transfer target. The Italy Under-21 international has made 13 Serie A appearances this season, scoring twice, and can operate as a number nine, second striker or on the left wing. Genoa value the youngster at around €20–25m and are prepared to consider offers that meet their demands.

Brentford Interest and Squad Context

Brentford have made initial contact over Ekhator amid ongoing squad planning. The Premier League side recently signed Kaye Furo, and currently rely on Igor Thiago, who has 16 league goals, and Kevin Schade, who has six. Dango Ouattarra and young Brazilian Gustavo Nunes also provide forward options, so any Brentford move would be balanced against existing attacking depth and priorities.

Competition from Roma, Atalanta and Marseille

Roma are actively searching for forward reinforcements, making them plausible suitors if their top targets remain unavailable. Atalanta, who have managed only 25 Serie A goals this season and rely heavily on Gianluca Scamacca, present a particularly logical fit given their need for additional attacking output. Marseille are monitoring younger forwards for future windows and could explore pre-agreements or loan-back arrangements.

Transfer Timing and Player Ambitions

Ekhator is willing to contemplate a move in 2026 if Genoa's financial terms are satisfied. The teenager is conscious of international prospects and sees a club move as a way to enhance his chances of breaking into Italy’s senior squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle. Any sale will hinge on offers meeting Genoa’s valuation and the player’s development pathway.

Implications for Clubs and Punters

For clubs, Ekhator represents a low-risk, high-upside signing: versatile across the front line and already involved in Italy’s youth setup. For bettors, the story shifts market dynamics for transfer odds—Atalanta and Roma may shorten as favourites, while goal markets for Ekhator could become attractive if he moves to a side needing goals. Consider transfer-prop and first-season scoring markets once official bids or agreements are confirmed.

Genoa frustration as Bento loan blocked by Al-Nassr

Brentford have made an enquiry for Genoa striker Jeff Ekhator, with the 19-year-old also attracting interest from Atalanta, Roma and Marseille.

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