Chelsea reject Dortmund bid for Carney Chukwuemeka as transfer battle heats up

Carney Chukwuemeka moved from Chelsea to Borussia Dortmund earlier in 2025 on loan, aiming to get more playing time.

The 21-year-old midfielder struggled for opportunities at Chelsea under manager Enzo Maresca, so the loan offered a fresh start.

Dortmund had an option to buy him permanently, but that clause expired around the time of the Club World Cup. Now, his future is once again in the air.

Chelsea reject latest Dortmund approach

Discussions to extend his stay in Germany took place during the summer. Dortmund and Chelsea appeared close to agreeing on another loan, but no deal was finalised.

This week, Chelsea rejected a fresh approach from Dortmund - a loan deal with an obligation to buy worth more than £15 million - signalling they want an outright sale rather than another temporary move.

Chukwuemeka himself has made it clear he’d rather stay in Dortmund. He feels more appreciated there than at Stamford Bridge, and he’s less enthusiastic about returning unless the situation changes.

Italian giants enter the race

Meanwhile, Napoli and Juventus have also entered the picture, further complicating Dortmund’s chances at sealing the deal..

As things stand, Chukwuemeka wants to remain in Germany, Dortmund are still circling but have been knocked back, and Chelsea are open to selling - but only on their terms.

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