Burnley reach agreement with Chelsea to sign nephew of ex-Super Eagles defender

Burnley have reached a full agreement with Chelsea to sign Lesley Ugochukwu, the nephew of retired Nigeria international defender Onyekechi Apam. 

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the 21-year-old is expected to undergo a medical at Turf Moor before completing a permanent transfer, with a five-year contract reportedly on the table.

Ugochukwu becomes the latest addition in a busy summer for Burnley under new head coach Scott Parker. 

The midfielder joined Chelsea from Rennes in 2023 for £23.5 million and made 15 appearances for the Blues before being loaned out to Southampton.

Ugochukwu’s departure comes as Chelsea look to trim their oversized squad, which currently includes over 40 senior players. 

With Enzo Maresca boasting a deep pool of midfield options, the club opted to cash in on the young talent, allowing Burnley to pounce on the opportunity.

His arrival will help fill the void left by Josh Brownhill, who departed as a free agent this summer after netting 18 goals in 44 games last season. 

Ugochukwu brings strength, versatility, and composure to Parker’s midfield, offering the ability to operate in both defensive and box-to-box roles.

Burnley have now made 11 signings this window, including experienced defenders Kyle Walker and Axel Tuanzebe, as well as attacking additions Jacob Bruun Larsen and Loum Tchaouna. 

The addition of Ugochukwu further highlights the Clarets’ ambition to compete at the top level following their return to the Premier League.

Wale Adejumo

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com