Super Eagles striker Gift Orban has joined Serie A side Hellas Verona on a season-long loan from Bundesliga club TSG Hoffenheim. The deal includes an option for Verona to make it permanent next summer for approximately €8 million, with the loan fee reported around €0.5 million.
At just 23, Orban is no stranger to life abroad his European journey began at Stabæk in Norway before moves to Gent, Olympique Lyonnais, and Hoffenheim. He earned acclaim at Gent for explosive scoring, including a record-breaking UEFA hat-trick, but found limited success in France, managing only five goals in 21 games.
A move to Germany followed, where he notched four goals in 13 appearances. Now he sets off for Italy, embarking on his fourth European league challenge in three years.
Editorial
We see this loan as a crossroads in Orban’s career. After dazzling spells in Norway and Belgium, he struggled to find consistency at Lyon and Hoffenheim. Italy’s Serie A offers both tactical sophistication and the platform for a resurgence.
We believe his skill set suits Verona’s environment. Known for his pace, positioning, and fearless finishing, Orban could revitalise a forward line that values direct, clinical attacking.
We trust the permanence option signals real intent from Verona. They know what he is capable of and are willing to invest further if he proves his worth. For Orban, this is more than another loan—it’s a chance to re-establish himself in a competitive European setting.
Did You Know?
- Orban can etch his name into Serie A as the latest Nigerian to headline in Italy’s top flight, joining names like Chukwueze and Okereke.
- He arrived in Norway from Bison FC and lit up Stabæk with 16 goals in 22 games, clinching the First Division’s top scorer and Young Player of the Year awards.
- At Gent, he shattered European records with a hat-trick in just 3 minutes 25 seconds making it the fastest in UEFA competition history.
- Lyon reportedly paid €12 million for him in January 2024, though Hoffenheim later secured his services for around €9 million including add-ons.
- Gift’s journey adds to his tally of having played in four major European leagues within three years showcasing both talent and resilience.
