Blockbuster Transfer! Napoli Snaps Up Talented Nigerian Football Star

Napoli Women have officially announced the permanent signing of Nigeria international defender Chidinma Okeke from Mexican club América Femenil. The 26-year-old centre-back finalized her move on Friday, September 18, agreeing to a two-year contract that will see her remain with the Italian club until 2028, adding significant defensive depth to their squad.

Okeke joins Napoli following a successful two-season stint with América Femenil, where she played a pivotal role in the Mexican club's triumph in the 2025/26 CONCACAF Champions Cup. During the 2025/26 season, she made 27 appearances in the Liga MX Femenil and featured in seven Champions Cup matches, demonstrating her consistency and impact on the field.

Her transfer to Italy marks another chapter in an impressive career spanning multiple continents. Prior to her time in Mexico, Okeke honed her skills with Robo Queens in Nigeria before moving to Europe, where she joined Madrid CFF in 2019. She later played for Mynavi Sendai in Japan before signing with América in August 2024, showcasing her adaptability to different footballing environments.

Chidinma Okeke's versatility is a key asset for Napoli, as she is adept at playing both as a centre-back and at full-back, providing crucial options for the team's defense ahead of the new Serie A Women season. She also brings a wealth of international experience, having represented Nigeria at the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, and most recently, the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris with the Super Falcons.

The Nigerian star's first competitive outing for Napoli is anticipated on September 26, when the club kicks off their 2026/27 Serie A Women campaign with an away fixture against Juventus at Biella. The match is scheduled for 12:30pm local time in Italy (11:30am Nigerian time). Napoli will be aiming for a stronger performance this season after finishing seventh in the 2025/26 Serie A Women standings. The upcoming season will feature 12 teams, with the top three securing berths in the UEFA Women's Champions League and the bottom side facing relegation to Serie B.

Expressing her satisfaction, Okeke stated that she was pleased with her initial days in Naples, having met the coach, staff, and her new teammates. She affirmed her goal to give her utmost best alongside the team, ready to contribute to Napoli Women's aspirations.