Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye under probe for alleged illegal betting practices
The Udine Public Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who is suspected of engaging in illegal betting practices.
According to reports, betting agency Sisal detected unusual gambling patterns on the likelihood of Okoye being booked during a match against Lazio in March 2024.
Okoye received a yellow card for time-wasting after 64 minutes, sparking suspicions of foul play.
The investigation is also examining the role of Diego Giordano, a 40-year-old restaurant owner in Udine, who is alleged to have been involved in a verbal agreement regarding the bet.
If found guilty, Okoye could face a ban from all competitions for at least four years, as well as potential legal consequences.
However, the player's legal representatives have denied all allegations, claiming that the accusations are unfounded and lack substantial evidence.
Okoye is currently sidelined after undergoing wrist surgery, and Udinese have signed goalkeeper Egil Selvik as a precautionary measure.
The investigation is ongoing, and Okoye's future in the sport remains uncertain.