Newcastle United have been hit with a big setback in their pursuit of Carney Chukwuemeka in the summer transfer window…
What’s the talk?
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the teenage Magpies target is set to move to one of their Premier League rivals for a fee rising to £20m.
He Tweeted: “Carney Chukwuemeka, in London together with his agents and family. He will undergo medical tests today in order to be unveiled this week as new Chelsea player for £15m fee plus add-ons up to £20m package. Contract will be until June 2028. 100% confirmed.”
This comes after the Blues confirmed: “Aston Villa and Chelsea can confirm that the clubs have reached an agreement for the permanent transfer of Carney Chukwuemeka. The 18-year-old has been given permission to travel to London to discuss both personal terms and undergo a medical.”
90min reporter Graeme Bailey named Newcastle as one of a number of clubs interested in snapping up a deal for the youngster last month and they now appear to have lost the race to sign him.
Eddie Howe’s own superstar
This is a setback for the Magpies as the 18-year-old is an exciting prospect who could have been a huge part of the club’s future.
Talent scout Jacek Kulig previously dubbed him a “superstar in the making” and a “special talent“, having watched him in action for England’s U19’s in the European Championships over the summer.
The gem scored three goals in four games from central midfield and found the back of the net in the final as he helped his country to beat Israel to the trophy.
He does not turn 19 until October and played 14 matches for Villa’s first team last term as he broke into Steven Gerrard’s squad – featuring in 12 Premier League games. In those outings, Chukwuemeka picked up one assist and won 55% of his battles on the pitch, which suggests that he has the physicality to handle himself in the top-flight against experienced professionals.
Now, imagine what he could be capable of with more maturity in his game and an improved physique as he grows into his body. At the age of 18, he has many, many, years left ahead of him to develop and he could become the superstar Kulig has tipped him to be by gaining more experience in the seasons to come.
The gem could have been Howe’s own midfield general and star man in the future, if he is able to fulfil the potential his stature at such a young age suggests he has, but the Magpies head coach will now have to watch on as he continues his career at Chelsea, whether that is at Stamford Bridge or out on loan for now.
