Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund begin negotiations for exciting Nigerian midfielder

Borussia Dortmund have taken a significant step in their pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka, with the Bundesliga side now engaged in official negotiations over a loan deal, Soccernet.ng understands.

According to transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, Dortmund have submitted a formal offer to Chelsea as they look to bring in the 21-year-old for the remainder of the season.

The move would provide Chukwuemeka with a fresh start after a frustrating spell at Stamford Bridge, where he has struggled for regular game time under manager Enzo Maresca.

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Despite interest from several clubs, including West Ham, Everton, Juventus, and Porto, Dortmund are currently leading the race.

The German side, long-term admirers of Chukwuemeka, see him as a valuable midfield addition following the injury to Felix Nmecha. However, it remains uncertain whether the loan deal will include an option or obligation to buy.

Chukwuemeka joined Chelsea from Aston Villa in a £20m transfer in 2022, arriving with high expectations.

He made promising strides under Mauricio Pochettino last season, only for a knee injury to disrupt his momentum. Since Maresca’s arrival, he has found opportunities limited, making just one start and four substitute appearances this season, none of which have come in the Premier League.

Dortmund, now under the management of Niko Kovač, are actively reinforcing their squad before the transfer window closes. The club views Chukwuemeka as a player who could flourish in the Bundesliga, following in the footsteps of other young talents who have thrived in Germany.

Beyond club football, Chukwuemeka’s international future remains a topic of discussion.

Born in Austria to Nigerian parents but raised in England, he is eligible to represent Austria, England, or Nigeria.

England currently hold the advantage, with Chukwuemeka featuring for the Three Lions at youth level. However, Nigeria still hope to convince him to switch allegiances to the Super Eagles.

For now, his focus will be on securing a move away from Chelsea, with Dortmund pushing to finalise a deal that could offer him the playing time and development he seeks.