Chelsea have turned down Borussia Dortmund’s latest attempt to sign Carney Chukwuemeka — a loan deal with an obligation to buy — insisting they will only consider a permanent transfer.
The 20-year-old midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at Dortmund and recently signed a new contract at Stamford Bridge, which includes a £40m release clause. However, Chelsea are prepared to accept less than that amount if the offer includes attractive add-ons and a sell-on clause.
There’s still a big gap between the two clubs’ valuations — around £20m — and Chelsea are said to be frustrated with how negotiations have dragged on.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich have reignited their interest in Christopher Nkunku. Talks are underway, but agreeing on a price is proving difficult. Chelsea want close to the £50m they paid RB Leipzig for the versatile attacker in 2024, while Bayern hope to bring the fee down.
Nkunku hasn’t featured in Chelsea’s recent friendlies against Bayer Leverkusen or AC Milan.
Chukwuemeka, on the other hand, is currently training with the so-called “bomb squad” — a group of senior players working away from new manager Enzo Maresca’s main first-team squad.
