With Ghana securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, attention has swiftly turned to how Otto Addo and his technical team can fortify the Black Stars squad for North America. As in past years, several dual-national players — eligible to represent more than one country — are under the Ghana Football Association’s radar. Some prospects are already open to the idea, others remain hesitant, while a few are viewed as long-term investments. Here’s an in-depth look at where things currently stand with each player linked to a potential Ghana switch.
Callum Hudson-Odoi – Nottingham Forest (Winger; England/Ghana)
Among the most prominent names on Ghana’s wishlist is Nottingham Forest winger Callum Hudson-Odoi. The London-born star of Ghanaian descent has represented England at every level up to the senior team, earning three caps for the Three Lions. Ghana previously courted him, with Hudson-Odoi even visiting Accra in 2021 for informal talks.
While he holds a Ghanaian passport, sources indicate the GFA is undecided about reigniting their pursuit. His selection would depend on both consistent form at club level and a genuine desire to commit to Ghana.
Eddie Nketiah – Crystal Palace (Striker; England/Ghana)
Eddie Nketiah’s move from Arsenal to Crystal Palace hasn’t shifted his position on international allegiance. The striker previously declined Ghana’s approaches before the 2022 World Cup, opting to chase his England dream. Although his camp has recently shown renewed interest, Ghana’s technical staff reportedly view him as no longer a key target, preferring strikers who offer a different profile to their current setup.
Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro – AZ Alkmaar (Goalkeeper; Netherlands/Ghana)
AZ Alkmaar goalkeeper Jayden Owusu-Oduro has emerged as a priority for Ghana’s long-term plans. The Dutch-born shot-stopper, who has represented the Netherlands at youth level, remains eligible for Ghana through his father. Talks have already begun, and the GFA sees him as a crucial investment for the next decade. Formal steps toward naturalization are expected in the coming weeks.
Jayden Addai – Como (Winger; Netherlands/Ghana)
Jayden Addai, the exciting young winger now playing for Como in Italy, has expressed interest in representing Ghana despite eligibility for the Netherlands. Having come through AZ Alkmaar’s academy, Addai is viewed by Ghana’s technical team as a long-term project. For now, they plan to monitor his progress in Serie A before making a decisive move.
Josh Acheampong – Chelsea (Defender; England/Ghana)
Chelsea’s rising defender Josh Acheampong is another name under close observation. The 19-year-old, who has already featured in both Premier League and Champions League matches, is considered one of Ghana’s key defensive prospects for the future. Otto Addo’s staff see him as a potential successor to Alexander Djiku but acknowledge that convincing him to commit could be challenging given his growing prominence in England.
Ayden Heaven – Manchester United (Defender/Midfielder; England/Ghana)
Manchester United’s Ayden Heaven is another dual-national talent on Ghana’s radar. Formerly of Arsenal’s academy, the England-born youngster of Ghanaian descent has impressed scouts but is still considered raw. The GFA plans to allow him more time to gain senior experience before pursuing a formal approach.
Samson Baidoo – RC Lens (Defender; Austria/Ghana)
RC Lens centre-back Samson Baidoo, who has represented Austria at youth and senior levels, remains eligible for Ghana. The 20-year-old has reportedly shown interest in playing for his parents’ homeland. However, the Black Stars’ technical team is split — some advocate for quick action before Austria cap-ties him, while others prefer to focus on more immediately available options.
Ilyas Ansah – Union Berlin (Forward; Germany/Ghana)
At just 19, Union Berlin forward Ilyas Ansah is one of the most intriguing prospects on Ghana’s radar. The Ghana FA has made him a top priority, seeking to secure his commitment before Germany integrates him into their youth ranks. Ghana views Ansah as a dynamic forward who could add height and flair to their attacking options at the 2026 World Cup.
Noah Nartey – Brøndby (Midfielder; Denmark/Ghana)
Denmark-born midfielder Noah Nartey is another rising name attracting Ghana’s interest. Currently impressing at Brøndby, Nartey’s style of play has drawn comparisons to Daniel Kofi-Kyereh. Early discussions between his camp and the GFA have been positive, with the player reportedly open to representing Ghana at senior level.
Darko Gyabi – Hull City (Midfielder; England/Ghana)
Hull City’s Darko Gyabi remains on Ghana’s radar but is yet to make the final shortlist. The midfielder, who has previously expressed pride in his Ghanaian heritage, is being monitored for consistency. The GFA wants to see stronger performances at club level before initiating official contact.
Romeo Lavia – Chelsea (Midfielder; Belgium/Ghana)
Chelsea’s Romeo Lavia appears to be off the table. Despite his Ghanaian roots, the midfielder has pledged full allegiance to Belgium and already featured for their senior national team. Consequently, the GFA has ended any pursuit of his services.
Francis Amuzu – Grêmio (Forward; Belgium/Ghana)
Francis Amuzu’s international situation remains complex. The Grêmio winger, who once declared for Belgium, later acquired a Ghanaian passport and expressed willingness to play for the Black Stars. However, his limited game time in Brazil — starting just 21% of matches this season — has cooled immediate interest. Ghana’s coaches are open to revisiting his case once his form improves.
