N34 billion flop: Super Eagles star offered to Besiktas

Samuel Chukwueze’s time at AC Milan is under intense scrutiny as the Nigerian winger edges closer to a potential January exit, Soccernet.ng reports.

Reports suggest the Serie A side may offload the 25-year-old during the upcoming transfer window, with Turkish giants Besiktas and Premier League contenders Arsenal both showing interest.

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Having joined Milan from Villarreal for a significant €21.1 million (approximately ₦34 billion) last year, expectations for Chukwueze were high.

Nigeria's Samuel Chukwueze Nigeria's Samuel Chukwueze
ABIDJAN, COTE D IVORE – JANUARY 11 Samuel Chukwueze of Nigeria during the Nigeria Training in preparation for Africa Cup of Nations match against Equatorial Guinea at Ecole Nationale de la Police on January 11, 2024 in Abidjan, Cote d Ivore. Photo by IMAGO

However, the Nigerian international has struggled to find his rhythm in Italy, contributing just 10 goal involvements in 54 appearances since his arrival.

With an average of only 43 minutes per game, he has failed to justify Milan’s substantial investment.

Milan are reportedly planning a squad overhaul in January, with Chukwueze identified as one of the players who could make way.

Ac Milan vs Genoa Cfc Samuel Chukwueze of Ac Milan looks on during the Serie A football match beetween Ac Milan and Genoa Cfc at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on December 15, 2024 in Milano, Italy. Photo by IMAGO

His name has already been linked to Besiktas, with agents proposing him to the Turkish Super League side amid ongoing presidential elections at the club.

Chukwueze had previously attracted interest from Trabzonspor, but Besiktas now appear to be the frontrunners for his signature.

Samuel Chukwueze: Arsenal and Aston Villa Enter the Frame

The situation has also captured the attention of Premier League sides Arsenal and Aston Villa.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces a selection headache with Bukayo Saka sidelined by a hamstring injury until March.

L-R Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan competes for the ball with Edoardo Pieragnolo of US Sassuolo during Coppa Italia 2024/25 football match between AC Milan and US Sassuolo at San Siro Stadium Milan Italy on 03 December 2024. Milan Stadio San Siro Milan Italy. Photo by IMAGO

A loan move for Chukwueze, potentially including a buy option, could offer a solution.

Aston Villa, led by former Villarreal boss Unai Emery, are another potential destination.

Emery worked closely with Chukwueze during his time in Spain and is reportedly keen to reunite with the player.

Milan, however, are looking to recoup the millions spent on Chukwueze’s transfer.

Arsenal, operating on a restricted budget, might find a loan arrangement with a future purchase clause an appealing route to securing the winger.

The Nigerian international is currently valued at €18 million by Transfermarkt, a sharp drop from his career-high €30 million valuation.

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad. From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.

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  • @basket random, It’s a shame that Chukwueze hasn’t been able to shine at AC Milan as expected. With his talent, hopefully he can find his form elsewhere, especially if he moves to Besiktas or Arsenal. Sometimes a new environment can bring out the best in a player. Good luck in his next steps!

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