Real Madrid tracking 18-year-old Atalanta wonderkid after breakout season | OneFootball

Real Madrid tracking 18-year-old Atalanta wonderkid after breakout season | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: Madrid Universal

Madrid Universal

·1 April 2026

Real Madrid tracking 18-year-old Atalanta wonderkid after breakout season

Article image:Real Madrid tracking 18-year-old Atalanta wonderkid after breakout season

Real Madrid have added another rising talent to their radar, with Honest Ahanor emerging as a player of strong interest following his impressive season at Atalanta.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Spanish giants are closely monitoring the 18-year-old full-back, who has quickly made a name for himself with consistent performances in Italy. 


OneFootball Videos


His development has not gone unnoticed, especially given Real Madrid’s continued focus on investing in young, high-potential players.

The Italian journalist mentions that Ahanor’s rise has been rapid. 

After joining Atalanta from Genoa for €17 million last summer, expectations were high and he has delivered. 

Gaining valuable experience

This season, Ahanor has featured regularly across competitions. 

Article image:Real Madrid tracking 18-year-old Atalanta wonderkid after breakout season

Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Honest Ahanor. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

He has made 16 appearances in Serie A, along with three outings in the Coppa Italia, where he also scored once. 

In addition, he has gained valuable experience on the European stage with nine appearances in the Champions League. In these outings, he has scored a goal.

His performances have also extended to the international level, where he has begun making an impact for the Italian U21 side, which strengthens his profile as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.

For Real Madrid, with competition expected to grow if his development continues at this pace, monitoring Ahanor closely could be the first step towards a future move.

Atalanta, however, are under no pressure to sell. Having invested significantly in the player and seen immediate returns, they view him as part of their long-term project.

For those who are unaware of Ahanor’s playing style, he is a left-back by trade, but thanks to his versatility, he can also play as a centre-back and a midfielder and also as a winger.

View publisher imprint