As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed that French youngster Lesley Ugochukwu set to leave Chelsea on loan.
The Blues have sealed an agreement with Rennes for their star midfielder Ugochukwu for a fee of €27-28m.
The 19-year-old player was absent from the French team’s squad in a friendly against West Ham at Roazhon Park on Saturday, as both clubs aim to conclude negotiations.
Chelsea have already reached an agreement on personal terms with the midfield prodigy and are set to conduct a medical examination within the next 24 hours.
It has now been confirmed by the manager that he will be sent on loan and the newly-acquired partner club, Strasbourg appears to be the player’s likely destination for the upcoming season.
Pochettino said:
“We need experience in midfield. The idea for Lesley is a loan move to get some game time.”
Lesley Ugochukwu, expected to leave Chelsea on loan as Mauricio Pochettino confirms: "We need experience in midfield. The idea for Lesley is loan move to get some game time". 🔵 #CFC
There's only Strasbourg as possible destination, if loan will be approved/confirmed. pic.twitter.com/gjFEWcBd5M
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 31, 2023
Ugochukwu, who emerged from the Rennes academy, has amassed 60 appearances for the club, with 35 of them coming in all competitions during the previous season.
The 19-year-old primarily operates as a holding midfielder and has earned six caps for the France U19 national team.
In addition to the French star, Chelsea are also planning to loan out Brazilian winger Angelo Gabriel, who is currently with the first team on their tour in the United States, to the same French side, Strasbourg.
Chelsea’s bid of £24 million for Elye Wahi from Montpellier has been rejected, and there is a possibility that he could join Strasbourg.
However, the limit of three loans allowed between clubs, regardless of shared ownership, could be a hurdle.
