Chelsea reject several loan offers for Lesley Ugochukwu as club looks for permanent deal this summer. Although interest has come from across Europe, the Blues are only considering cash sales.
Chelsea Make Transfer Stance Clear on Ugochukwu
Chelsea have shown they are not prepared to entertain loan offers for Ugochukwu, who arrived from Rennes last summer. Premier League clubs and La Liga side Valencia have shown interest, but all offers, including loan-bids, have been turned down. The club’s approach is part of a wider transfer policy that cuts the squad and raises money for The club’s approach is part of a wider transfer policy that cuts the squad and raises money for new signings.
Although Ugochukwu showed promise during his loan spell at Southampton but Chelsea are willing to sell the 20-year-old. He made 26 appearances in the Premier League last season, but the Blues still do not think there is a long-term future. Enzo Maresca is going to shape the squad the way he wants and values certainty over hanging onto developmental prospects.
The Blues reckon keeping fringe players out on loan stunts progress for both parties. By boosting turnover, Chelsea hope to make room for the crop of young players emerging from the academy and financial sense in the window. Maresca is ready to hand midfield places to his homegrown talents such as Leo Castledine and Carney Chukwuemeka.
Ugochukwu Sale Key to Maresca’s Transfer Strategy
Ugochukwu joined for an estimated £23.5m and is under contract until 2030. Chelsea are now seeking to make back that investment and have an asking price of £25-30million. There is also the chance of inserting a buy-back clause or sell-on in any potential agreement.
The club’s refusal to accept loans is indicative of a stronger stance in the transfer market. Maresca, who is looking to trim his squad ready for pre-season, is keen on simplifying his options. Chelsea aim to move players out swiftly and avoid delaying exits through loan spells.
The club plans to resolve Ugochukwu’s future imminently, pushing for answers before the US tour begins later this month.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
