Carney Chukwuemeka’s second season at Chelsea was hampered by injuries. This has led to recent transfer rumors linking him with a loan move to AC Milan, who are reportedly interested in acquiring him with a potential option to buy permanently.
Chelsea, however, have a history of successful loan deals with AC Milan, but transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has downplayed this possibility.
The key detail revealed is the presence of a hefty £40 million release clause in Chukwuemeka’s contract. This is significantly higher than his estimated market value of €4.5 million according to FootballTransfers’ algorithm.
According to Romano, Chelsea is clear on their stance: they will not entertain loan offers for Chukwuemeka. This £40 million release clause seems to be their set price. Despite a fluctuating transfer market, Chelsea remains committed to keeping the player.
Chukwuemeka joined Chelsea in 2022 for €18 million after Barcelona expressed interest in signing him from Aston Villa. Injuries limited his playing time last season, with manager Mauricio Pochettino preferring Conor Gallagher and Cole Palmer in central midfield.
Chukwuemeka’s prospects of breaking into the first team under new coach Enzo Maresca seem to have diminished further with the recent confirmation of Chelsea signing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City. This new arrival adds competition for playing time in Chukwuemeka’s preferred position.