A significant development in the world of football as Samuel Omorodion witnesses a remarkable growth in his market valuation, with PUNCH Sports Extra bringing the news to light.
Within a span of just six months, the 19-year-old’s market value has escalated from €400,000 to a staggering €40m, as indicated by Transfermarkt.
Last summer, Atletico Madrid secured the services of this young talent from Spain’s under-21 ranks, striking a €6m deal with Granada. Since then, Omorodion’s performance and market value have shown a steady upward trend.
Renowned Spain transfer expert Gianluca di Marzio Blaseio commended Atletico’s astute scouting in acquiring the gifted striker, stating, “The loan move has also been a good move, and the big striker could offer real competition for (Alvaro) Morata in the attack.”
Against the backdrop of this surge, Omorodion could etch his name in the annals of history when Deportivo Alaves clash against Real Sociedad in a LaLiga encounter this Sunday.
Having notched up nine goals and an assist for Alaves in 27 La Liga appearances since arriving at the Mendizorroza stadium, Omorodion finds himself on par with former Nigerian striker Christopher Ohenhen in terms of debut season goal-scoring record.
The young talent will be striving to break free from his recent goal drought spanning five league games as he gears up for his 20th appearance for Alaves.
In the past, Nigerian strikers like Ikechukwu Uche and Obafemi Martins have come tantalizingly close to achieving similar feats, with Uche netting eight goals and providing an assist in his debut LaLiga season for Recreativo Huelva in the 2006/07 campaign.
Meanwhile, Martins, during a loan stint at Levante from Seattle Sounders in the 2012/13 season, scored seven times and delivered three assists in 21 games for Los Azulgranas.
Omorodion’s meteoric rise at Alaves has aroused interest from clubs in France and Italy, resulting in inquiries about his availability in January.
As per reports from Dairo Sports, Atlético Madrid turned down a €30m offer for his services and is set to engage in discussions with his representatives in the upcoming weeks to elevate his release clause.
His current scintillating form positions Omorodion as a pivotal figure for Atlético Madrid in the times to come, promising an exciting future ahead.