Bologna are reportedly targeting Nigerian forward Gift Orban as a potential summer signing, with the Serie A club viewing him as an affordable option to bolster their attack.

Orban is currently spending the season on loan at Hellas Verona from Bundesliga side TSG Hoffenheim. However, Verona have opted against making the arrangement permanent, meaning the 23-year-old striker is set to return to Hoffenheim at the end of the campaign.

According to Transferfeed, Bologna are now preparing a move for the former Lyon striker, with his valuation of around €8 million making him an attractive proposition. His existing familiarity with Serie A football is also considered a key factor in facilitating a potential transfer.

Seven goals in a difficult season

Orban has managed seven goals in 28 league appearances for Verona this season — a decent return given the club's struggles in the Italian top flight.

His campaign has not been without controversy, though. Orban has been absent from Verona's last four matches after an altercation with a fan following a home defeat to AC Milan last month. The incident cast a shadow over what had otherwise been a productive loan spell.

Bologna's interest signals that, despite the off-field episode, there remains genuine appetite across Serie A for the Nigerian's services heading into the summer window.