Samuel Chukwueze wanted: Spanish clubs join race for Milan’s Nigerian star as Fulham push for late deal

Fulham have stepped up their pursuit of AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze, but face competition from several Spanish clubs as the transfer window enters its final week, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Premier League side have submitted a loan bid for the Nigeria international, who joined Milan from Villarreal in 2023 for €21.1m plus add-ons.

Fulham are proposing a season-long loan with an option to buy, which could become an obligation if certain performance-based conditions are met.

Milan, however, are reluctant to agree unless a guaranteed purchase clause is included.

Spanish clubs are now monitoring the situation closely. Journalist Matteo Moretto reports that La Liga sides are preparing to rival Fulham for Chukwueze’s signature, while Italian sources suggest Turkish teams have also made enquiries. Milan are weighing up all offers but remain keen on securing a permanent sale.

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Chukwueze, 26, has endured a mixed spell at San Siro. Despite his reputation as a quick, direct winger, he has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter. Since moving from Villarreal, he has registered eight goals and six assists in 69 appearances across all competitions, figures that fall short of the club’s expectations.

Fulham’s interest is not new. Marco Silva’s side attempted to sign Chukwueze in January, only for talks to collapse.

This summer, Silva is again prioritising wide reinforcements after injuries to Adama Traore, Reiss Nelson and Harry Wilson disrupted the team’s rhythm last season.

Club insiders believe Chukwueze’s pace and creativity could provide a crucial boost as Fulham look to mount another challenge for European qualification.

Negotiations remain ongoing, with both clubs optimistic that a solution can be found before deadline day.

Chukwueze himself is understood to be open to a move, having fallen down the pecking order at Milan.

The winger, capped 46 times by Nigeria, is seeking regular first-team football to maintain his international prospects ahead of December's Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Chukwueze, who impressed as the Super Eagles defeated Ghana and Jamaica to win the Unity in May, has been named in Nigeria’s 31-man provisional squad for September’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.