Report: Chelsea make transfer stance on Super Eagles prospect

Chelsea are reportedly seeking a permanent sale for midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu, despite interest from Premier League and LaLiga clubs for a loan deal. 

Ugochukwu, who joined Chelsea from Rennes in 2023 on a seven-year contract, was initially seen as a future first-team regular. 

However, injuries limited him during his first season, leading to a loan spell at Southampton for the 2024-25 campaign.

Despite Saints’ Premier League relegation, the 21-year-old Frenchman made 26 Premier League appearances, maintaining his reputation. 

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea officials are now unwilling to entertain further loan proposals, instead prioritising a sale to recoup as much of the £23 million they paid for him. 

The reported move aligns with Chelsea's need for player sales to meet UEFA financial regulations.

Valencia and several Premier League teams are reportedly interested in a loan, presumably for the upcoming season, but these clubs may be disappointed by the Premier League club’s stance.

Chelsea will face Fluminense in the semi-final, where they will be reunited with former centre-back Thiago Silva, for a place in the final.