Chelsea in talks with Rennes to sign Nigerian midfielder Ugochukwu

Chelsea Football Club is currently in negotiations with French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais over the potential signing of Lesley Ugochukwu, a France-born Nigerian midfielder.

Reports in June indicated that Ugochukwu had caught the attention of several Premier League clubs, with West Ham United also showing interest in the 19-year-old player. However, it is Chelsea that has taken the lead by initiating talks with Rennes.

According to L’Équipe, discussions between Chelsea and Rennes have been ongoing for approximately 10 days. Ugochukwu is currently under contract with the Ligue 1 club until the summer of 2025.

Chelsea is keen to bolster their midfield options following recent departures in that area of the squad. Jorginho made a move to Arsenal in January, while Mateo Kovacic, Mason Mount, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have all left the club during the current transfer window.

In addition to pursuing Ugochukwu, Chelsea is still working to secure the signature of Brighton’s Moises Caicedo. However, the negotiations for the Ecuadorian midfielder have proven to be challenging.

Ugochukwu, who started in just 14 Ligue 1 games last season, faced difficulties in securing regular game time towards the end of the campaign. Despite his France-born status, he has represented the French U-18 and U-19 national teams.

The young midfielder also has a significant footballing connection, as he is the nephew of former Rennes and Super Eagles defender, Onyekachi Apam.