Chelsea transfer news: Blues 21-year-old 'given green light' to leave on loan in January following Celtic, Rangers offer

The 21-year-old has been limited to a fringe role in the plans of Enzo Maresca this season, last featuring during the Blues' 2-0 win over Heidenheim in the Conference League.

Chukwuemeka has failed to make a Premier League appearance for Chelsea so far in 2024-25, despite earning 23 features in the top flight during the previous two campaigns.

The midfielder has relative international pedigree, having represented England at Under-20 level, whilst receiving his maiden Under-21 call-up earlier in 2024.

Since making the £20m switch from fellow Premier League club Aston Villa in August 2022, Chukwuemeka has played in 31 first-team matches for the Stamford Bridge club, scoring twice.

Chelsea prepared to loan Chukwuemeka in New Year?

According to TBR Football, Chelsea have made a decision regarding the short-term future of Chukwuemeka ahead of the upcoming January transfer window.

The report states that the Blues are willing to sanction a loan exit of the former Northampton Town academy star for the remainder of the 2024-25 campaign.

It is understood that Maresca's men are actively looking to offload the 21-year-old, offering his services to Scottish and European giants Celtic.

As well as Brendan Rodgers's Bhoys, it is believed that Rangers have also been given the chance to sign Chukwuemeka on a temporary deal in the New Year.

The midfielder is set for another watching brief as Liverpool-chasing Chelsea visit the home of London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.

Celtic or Rangers for Chukwuemeka?

Should Chukwuemeka switch to either Celtic or Rangers in January, the Chelsea man would be joining a club with major expectations and history.

The Hoops look on course for their fourth straight Scottish Premiership title, currently sitting seven points clear of second-placed Aberdeen in the league table.

Celtic are also proving to be a serious player on the continent this campaign, with a real chance of advancing into the knockout stages of the Champions League.

On the other hand, Rangers are battling down in the Europa League and could be a less attractive proposition, however Chukwuemeka is likely to receive better assurances of game time at Ibrox.

Written by

Carter White