Super Eagles striker Akor Adams has said Venezia’s ambitious long-term vision convinced him to leave Sevilla and begin a new chapter in Italy, after completing a permanent move to the Serie A club on a contract running until June 2030, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Adams becomes the most expensive signing in Venezia’s history, with the newly promoted club paying €17m plus bonuses for the striker on a four-year deal reportedly worth €1.5m per season, a fee that sets a new club record.

“I chose to come here because I see the extraordinary project Venezia is building, and I want to contribute to writing a new chapter in its history,” the 26-year-old said, adding that the passion of Venezia’s supporters had left a lasting impression on him even before his arrival.

Venezia head coach Giovanni Stroppa welcomed the signing, describing Adams as an important addition who would give the team a big boost going forward, while noting that the club’s attention would now turn to strengthening its defence.

“I confirm, he is an important profile who will give us a big hand. Numerically, we have some gaps defensively, we will try to think about that. I am not good at naming names, certainly the sporting director, Antonelli, also holds the wallet, so we will see what he manages to do. I am very satisfied with the club’s work,” Stroppa said.

Adams, who hails from Benue State, began his European career with Norwegian side Sogndal before moving to Lillestrom, where his prolific scoring attracted interest from clubs across the continent.

A successful spell at French club Montpellier paved the way for a move to Sevilla in January 2025, where he finished as the club’s leading league scorer with 10 goals in 37 appearances, several of which came during a crucial run-in that helped Sevilla avoid relegation and preserve their top-flight status. On the international stage, Adams has represented Nigeria at U-20 level and has scored six goals in fifteen appearances for the Super Eagles and picked up a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The striker is now expected to spearhead Venezia’s attack as the club looks to establish itself in Serie A following promotion, with Adams hoping to repay the faith shown in him by helping the club retain its place in the Italian top flight.