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The 20-year-old midfielder is reportedly set to join the promoted Saints ahead of their Premier League campaign.
Southampton are on the brink of securing a season-long loan deal for promising midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu from Chelsea, as per The Athletic.
Ugochukwu joined Chelsea from Rennes last summer for a fee of around €27.5 million and has shown glimpses of his talent in his time at Stamford Bridge.
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While he has faced some injury setbacks, the Blues remain confident in his ability and are keen to see him gain valuable experience in the Premier League.
Ugochukwu: Why have Chelsea chosen Southampton?
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Despite receiving interest from multiple clubs, Chelsea has ruled out a permanent sale, viewing the 20-year-old as a key part of their future plans.
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According to The Athletic, the Blues are impressed by Southampton's management and playing style under Russell Martin, believing it aligns well with their vision for the future under Enzo Maresca.
Chelsea see Ugochukwu as a player with the potential to develop into a world-class midfielder, similar to Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni.
Southampton are eager to add depth to their midfield and believe Ugochukwu's skillset will be a valuable asset for the forthcoming 2024-25 campaign, and the Saints are keen to finalise a loan deal with Chelsea for the young midfielder.
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11:40 - 25.07.2024
Super Eagles-eligible Ugochukwu credits Maresca for goal-scoring improvement
The midfielder is typically known for the defensive side of his game but netted a goal on Thursday as Chelsea avoided an embarrassing defeat by Wrexham.
What comes next?
Ugochukwu showed improved goalscoring prowess in Chelsea’s pre-season, finding the equaliser in a 2-2 draw with Wrexham and the 1-1 tie with Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea face Manchester City in their Premier League opener on Sunday, August 18, while Southampton travel to Newcastle United on August 17.
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