Venezia are weighing up a move for Nigeria international Gift Orban as the newly promoted Serie A side look to assemble a competitive squad for the 2026–27 campaign, according to Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio.

Venezia's push for Orban

The Winged Lions sealed an immediate return to Serie A after winning Serie B last season, having been relegated at the end of the 2024–25 campaign. With promotion secured, the club are determined to strengthen their ranks and avoid another swift drop into the second tier.

Orban, 23, arrives on their shortlist with a solid body of work from his loan spell at Hellas Verona during the 2024–25 season. The forward registered seven goals and three assists across 28 Serie A appearances — form that has attracted attention from multiple clubs this summer.

Verona, however, chose not to activate the option to sign Orban permanently after they were relegated in 19th place, bringing an end to his stint in the Veneto.

Background and valuation

Orban moved to Bundesliga club Hoffenheim from Olympique Lyon in January 2025, completing a switch from Ligue 1 to the German top flight. He went on to score four goals in 13 league appearances for Die Kraichgauer before heading out on loan to Verona.

Hoffenheim are expected to demand around €9 million for the pacy striker, and with interest growing, several clubs are anticipated to enter the race before the summer transfer window closes.