English Premier League clubs, Chelsea FC, are reportedly set to part ways with two players eligible to represent the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Soccernet.ng reports.
This report comes on the heels of the London-based club accelerating its squad reshuffle ahead of the 2025/26 season campaign.
Following Armando Broja’s exit, Lesley Ugochukwu is set to join Burnley permanently. Everton have sealed a £25M deal (plus £4M add-ons) for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, while Carney Chukwuemeka is also likely to leave, with Borussia Dortmund showing strong interest.
Ugochukwu to Burnley
Per Sportsmole, Ugochukwu, who spent a season-long loan at Southampton last season, is on the verge of completing a permanent transfer to Burnley, after the Clarets and Chelsea reached an agreement in principle.
The 21-year-old midfielder, born in France but of Nigerian descent, joined the Blues from Rennes in 2023 but has struggled for consistent minutes at Stamford Bridge.
Burnley are expected to offer him a clearer path to first-team football under manager Scott Parker.
Dortmund Eye Permanent Move For Chukwuemeka
Also heading toward the exit door is another Nigeria-eligible player, Carney Chukwuemeka, with Borussia Dortmund reportedly in advanced talks to sign him on a permanent deal.
Chukwuemeka, who has represented England at youth level, remains eligible to play for Nigeria through his parents.
After spending time on loan, Dortmund are keen to secure his services permanently, and Chelsea are open to a sale if the financial package is right.
Nigerian Roots: Ugochukwu and Chukwuemeka
Ugochukwu was born in France to Nigerian parents and is eligible to play for the Super Eagles despite representing France at youth level.
His Nigerian heritage, along with his uncle Onyekachi Apam featuring for the national team, keeps him linked to Nigeria, though no official switch has been made.
Meanwhile, Chukwuemeka, born in Austria to Nigerian parents and raised in England, has played for England’s youth teams.
He remains eligible for Nigeria but, like Ugochukwu, has not begun the process to switch allegiance, nor has he been approached by the NFF.