Norwegian defender Leo Ostigard is reportedly set to make a return to Genoa, joining on a loan agreement that includes an option for a permanent transfer from Stade Rennes. This move marks his comeback to Italian football after his departure from Serie A in 2024.
Renowned transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio of Sky Sport Italia has confirmed that an agreement has been finalized, with Ostigard expected to arrive in Italy on Sunday to undergo medical examinations.
Genoa`s initial target was Jay Idzes, but reports indicate that Venezia`s €10 million asking price prompted the club to shift their focus back to securing Ostigard.
Genoa Reverts to Ostigard Pursuit
The Norwegian international previously played for Genoa, donning the “Grifone” jersey for a six-month loan spell in 2022 while he was with Brighton and Hove Albion.
During his previous stint, he featured in 15 matches for Genoa, contributing one goal and accumulating two red cards.
Following his Genoa loan, Ostigard stayed in Serie A, as Brighton completed his transfer to Napoli for €5.5 million. He was part of the squad that secured the Serie A title, prior to his move to Stade Rennes in 2024.
Most recently, the central defender spent the past six months on loan with TSG Hoffenheim in Germany.
Across his spells with Genoa and Napoli, he has accumulated 46 Serie A appearances throughout his career, and is now poised to re-enter Italian football for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
