Chukwuemeka Likely to Leave Chelsea as Maresca Confirms Exit Talks

Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka is training away from the main squad. Manager Enzo Maresca said the player is likely to leave before the transfer window closes.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Maresca said that Chukwuemeka is training with players who are waiting for solutions and he might get a chance to leave. The 21-year-old has found first-team opportunities difficult at Chelsea, especially after his loan to Borussia Dortmund. Chelsea rejected Dortmund’s latest loan-plus-obligation offer. Chelsea prefer a permanent transfer, and clubs like Napoli and Juventus are showing interest. Chukwuemeka wants to return to Germany for good, but his future remains unresolved as the transfer deadline approaches.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR CHELSEA AND CHUKWUEMEKA

Chukwuemeka joined Chelsea in 2022 from Aston Villa but has only made 32 appearances due to injuries and limited chances in a busy squad. Last season, he spent the second half on loan at Dortmund, making 17 appearances and scoring once. Chelsea are seeking to trim the squad after a somewhat decent 2024/25 Premier League campaign: they finished 4th, qualified for the Champions League but failed to be a threat to the title. Chelsea have already made several sales this summer, with big names like Raheem Sterling and Christopher Nkunku also linked to the exit. For Chukwuemeka, staying at Dortmund or moving to Italy would offer a fresh start and more playing time, matching his own wishes to leave Stamford Bridge for good.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR PLAYER AND CLUB?

The transfer window will close in two weeks. Chelsea have limited time to secure a deal for Chukwuemeka, whether permanent or on loan. Borussia Dortmund finished 4th in the Bundesliga last season and are interested in Chukwuemeka, but negotiations have stalled. Napoli and Juventus are also in the race, both rebuilding after finishing 1st and 4th in Serie A respectively. Chelsea’s first Premier League match is against Crystal Palace. As the transfer window nears its end, both Chelsea and Chukwuemeka are under pressure to find a solution that works for everyone involved.