Everton is making strides to secure a loan deal for Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu this summer, as reported by Foot Mercato on July 13.
The French publication highlights that Ugochukwu, currently at Stamford Bridge, is expected to leave on a temporary basis, with Everton eager to bring him to Goodison Park.
The Toffees are among three Premier League clubs interested in the 20-year-old, although they are the only English side specifically named in the report. In addition, there is reported interest from a Ligue 1 club and other European teams. Ugochukwu, who is part of Thierry Henry’s French Under-21 squad preparing for the Olympics, reportedly favors remaining in the Premier League.
Chelsea acquired Ugochukwu last summer for £23.1 million from Rennes. Despite being sidelined with a hamstring injury from December to May, he managed to make 15 appearances under manager Mauricio Pochettino, displaying significant potential.
Everton’s pursuit of Ugochukwu is partly influenced by the anticipated departure of Amadou Onana. Onana, after two seasons at Goodison Park, is attracting substantial interest from clubs in England and abroad. To bolster their midfield, Everton recently signed Tim Iroegbunam from Aston Villa on a permanent basis, following Andre Gomes’ contract expiration.
With the potential addition of Ugochukwu, Everton aims to strengthen their squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.
