Chelsea have successfully completed the signing of Lesley Ugochukwu, a 19-year-old French midfielder, from Rennes on a seven-year contract worth £23.2 million (27 million euros). In the 2022-23 season, Ugochukwu appeared in 47 Ligue 1 matches for Rennes and also participated in the Europa League.
Although Ugochukwu has yet to make his senior debut for the French national team, he has represented France at the under-17, under-18, and under-19 levels. Chelsea’s decision to acquire the young talent comes after their manager, Mauricio Pochettino, expressed the need to reinforce the midfield.
As part of their strategy to sign promising young players with potential, Chelsea plans to send Ugochukwu on loan to Ligue 1 club Strasbourg. The deal also includes an option for an additional year.
Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, praised Ugochukwu’s talent and potential, emphasizing their confidence in his continuous development and improvement.
Chelsea has been reshaping their squad, parting ways with players like Kai Havertz, Mateo Kovacic, and Mason Mount, while also making acquisitions like Moises Caicedo from Brighton and attackers Christopher Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson, and Brazilian youngster Angelo Gabriel.
With Ugochukwu now joining the squad on their pre-season tour in the United States, Chelsea is looking forward to integrating him quickly into the team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about midfield
Q: Who did Chelsea sign in the recent transfer window?
A: Chelsea signed Lesley Ugochukwu, a French midfielder from Rennes, on a seven-year deal for £23.2 million.
Q: How many appearances did Lesley Ugochukwu make for Rennes in Ligue 1?
A: In the 2022-23 season, Lesley Ugochukwu featured in 47 matches for Rennes in Ligue 1.
Q: Has Lesley Ugochukwu played for the French senior national team?
A: No, he is yet to make his senior debut for France, but he has represented the country at the under-17, under-18, and under-19 levels.
Q: Are there any plans for Ugochukwu after joining Chelsea?
A: Chelsea may consider sending Ugochukwu on loan to Ligue 1 side Strasbourg.
More about midfield
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BBC Sport: Chelsea complete £23.2m signing of Rennes midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu
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Ligue 1 Official Website: Lesley Ugochukwu’s Ligue 1 Stats
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Transfermarkt: Lesley Ugochukwu’s Player Profile
2 comments
chelsea signin Lesley Ugochukwu for big moneys, midfield need improve, good deal for da club, hope he plays wel!
Ligue1 to PremierLeague, big step for Ugochukwu, hope he adapt quick & make impact. Kante’s big shoes to fill. COYB!