Wanted in London: PSG reject Chelsea bid for Nigeria playmaker

The Nigerian playmaker has impressed in the Italian and French championships and could be set for a switch to England

Paris Saint-Germain have rejected a late approach from Chelsea for Nigeria international midfielder Jennifer Echegini, Soccernet.ng reports.

PSG are determined to keep one of their most influential players during the January transfer window despite Chelsea's keen interest.

The Women’s Super League champions made contact with PSG with just days remaining before the English transfer deadline. The English giants are understood to be exploring midfield reinforcements for the second half of the season.

However, the French champions were unwilling to open negotiations, with sources in Paris indicating that Echegini is considered a non-negotiable part of the club’s sporting plans.

Reporting the development, Le Parisien journalist Benjamin Quarez said: “Paris Saint-Germain have rejected an offer from Chelsea for Jennifer Echegini, with the French club keen to retain the Nigeria international during the current winter transfer window. The transfer deadline in England closes on 3 February.”

PSG’s stance reflects their desire to maintain squad continuity as they push for domestic success and aim to strengthen their position in Europe. Club officials believe disrupting the midfield unit midway through the campaign would be counter-productive, particularly with Echegini playing an increasingly prominent role.

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Nigeria's Echegini: Beloved in Paris, wanted in London

Echegini joined PSG from Juventus in June 2024 on a three-year contract running until June 2027, following earlier development at the Arsenal academy.

Since arriving in Paris, she has quickly adapted to the demands of the French game, earning praise for her calmness in possession, tactical intelligence and ability to control the rhythm of matches.

Her performances have not gone unnoticed, both domestically and internationally. At club level, she has grown into a trusted midfield presence, capable of linking play and contributing at decisive moments. That maturity has been mirrored on the international stage with Nigeria.

The 24-year-old etched her name into Super Falcons history by scoring the winning goal in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, sealing a record-extending 10th continental title for Nigeria against the host nation.

That impact has been reflected in her market value. According to Soccerdona valuations on Transfermarkt’s women’s football platform, Echegini is currently rated as Africa’s fifth most valuable female footballer and Nigeria’s second most valuable, behind Rasheedat Ajibade.

Chelsea, though, may need to rework their strategy to capture one of the continent's finest playmakers.