Sheffield United are believed to be interested in talented young player Carney Chukwuemeka
Paul Heckingbottom will have to wait to discover if they can press ahead with a loan move for Carney Chukwuemeka, it is being claimed. The 19-year-old is among the names being linked with interest from Sheffield United.
The midfielder, who Chelsea signed from Aston Villa for £18m last year, perfectly fits the bill for what the Blades boss is looking for. It is believed United have sounded their counterparts out at Stamford Bridge about bringing him to Bramall Lane for the 2023-24 campaign.
Heckingbottom is looking to utilise the loan market and hopes his success with the development of Tommy Doyle and James McAtee last season will help pursuade more of the Premier League’s top clubs to send their talented young players to Sheffield United.
Chukwuemeka was signed as one for the future and is in need of game time having started just two league matches for the Blues. He was being earmarked for a loan when the season came to an end but no decision will be taken on what next until new manager Mauricio Pochettino has the final say.
Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano claims he remains ‘part of the future’ and that Chelsea have no plans to sell. However, will look for a loan
He wrote: “Chelsea have not changed their stance about Carney Chukwuemeka: no plan to include any buy option clause in case of loan deal as Carney is considered part of the future project.
“Loan is not even guaranteed yet as it depends on Pochettino final choice and more outgoings.”
If Sheffield United do get the green light to put their case forward for a loan, they are expected to face stiff competition with AC Milan the latest club credited with interest. The Italian giants are said to have enquired about Chukwuemeka having turned their attentions away from a £15m deal for Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
United will at least be encouraged by the news there is no intention to sell and if he does leave Stamford Bridge it will be on loan.
