Transfer: Why wanted Nigerian star is resisting AC Milan exit after Fulham decision

Nigerian forward Samuel Chukwueze faces an uncertain future heading into the summer transfer window, with questions continuing to surround his next move, Soccernet.ng reports.

Chukwueze's future initially appeared settled when he left AC Milan last summer to join Premier League side Fulham on a season-long loan, with the English club holding an option to make the move permanent.

The 27-year-old showed flashes of his quality during his time at Craven Cottage, contributing three goals and four assists across all competitions. He also briefly left club duty to represent Nigeria at the 2025 AFCON, where the Super Eagles finished third to claim a record ninth bronze medal.

It initially looked as though Fulham would activate their option to sign him permanently under former manager Marco Silva following his encouraging performances. Chukwueze himself was also keen to remain at the club after adapting well to life in England.

However, Fulham ultimately decided against making the move permanent, forcing the Nigerian winger to return to AC Milan, where another major decision over his future now awaits.

Chukwueze had emerged as a major transfer target for Turkish giants Trabzonspor, who reportedly submitted an offer of around €15 million as they intensify efforts to sign the Nigerian from AC Milan.

The Turkish side are counting on the winger's European experience as they prepare for a return to the UEFA Champions League and look to mount a stronger title challenge against Galatasaray and Fenerbahce in the Turkish Super Lig.

Why the Nigerian forward wants to stay at AC Milan

Reports suggest Chukwueze is not interested in a move to Turkey at this stage of his career. His first preference had been to remain at Fulham, but after the Premier League club declined to activate their purchase option, he has turned his attention back to AC Milan.

“Trabzonspor reached out to AC Milan to work out a deal and are willing to pay €15m–€20m for him, but the player is not excited about playing for Trabzonspor”, Buchi Laba revealed on X.

“His main intention was to stay at Fulham, but Fulham did not activate the buyback clause. So for now, Samuel’s plan is to stay at AC Milan and fight for his place, even though AC Milan’s plan is to sell him permanently.”

For now, the Nigerian international wants to stay at the San Siro and fight for his place in the squad. With two years remaining on his contract and AC Milan entering a new era under Ruben Amorim, Chukwueze believes he could be given a fresh opportunity to establish himself.

His pace, dribbling ability and crossing suit Amorim's preferred style of play, although he will still need to improve his defensive contribution if he is to earn a regular place in the team.

That said, the summer transfer window remains open, and plenty could still change before the market closes.