Newly promoted Serie A team, Frosinone, has secured Nigerian defender Kevin Akpoguma after his contract with Bundesliga side Hoffenheim ended, Naija Footy reports.
Akpoguma joins on a free transfer as the Italian club bolsters its squad for the return to top-tier football.
Akpoguma’s move to Italy marks the conclusion of a remarkable 13-year stint at Hoffenheim, where he advanced from the youth ranks to become a seasoned defender. At 31, he is valued at €1.5 million by Transfermarkt and sees this as a fresh chance for regular playtime in one of Europe’s premier leagues.
Throughout his tenure at Hoffenheim, Akpoguma made 202 competitive appearances, scoring four goals, and proved himself as a dependable option in both center-back and right-back positions. His experience spans the Bundesliga, UEFA Champions League, and Europa League, along with loan periods at Fortuna Düsseldorf and Hannover 96.
This transfer adds Akpoguma to the summer trend of Nigerian internationals joining newly promoted clubs in Europe’s top leagues. Frosinone expects his experience, leadership, and versatility to be vital in their goal to maintain their Serie A status following promotion.
For Akpoguma, this move is an opportunity to reignite his international career. With eight caps for Nigeria since switching allegiance from Germany, consistent play in Serie A may enhance his prospects of returning to Eric Chelle’s plans for future international matches.
Frosinone’s acquisition demonstrates their strategy of enhancing the team with experienced players without incurring transfer fees. With his Transfermarkt valuation at €1.5 million and over 200 appearances for Hoffenheim, Akpoguma brings significant quality and leadership to help the club tackle the challenges of the 2026/27 Serie A season.
