Dortmund indicate interest to sign Chelsea’s £40m-rated Carney Chukwuemeka

Borussia Dortmund have confirmed their interest in re-signing Carney Chukwuemeka following the midfielder’s loan spell.

The club’s sporting director Sebastian Kehl states that the Bundesliga side will hold talks with Chelsea over a potential permanent deal.

The 21-year-old joined Dortmund on loan in January after falling out of favour under former Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino and current manager Enzo Maresca.

Despite limited minutes, 17 appearances with just two starts, the German side are convinced of his long-term potential.

“Carney’s loan ends today. That was what we agreed with Chelsea. Now, let’s see,” Kehl said.

“We will definitely have more discussions in the next few days. It won’t be easy, but we’ll try to keep him because he’s a very good player.”

Chelsea signed Chukwuemeka from Aston Villa in 2022 for £15 million, but the player has struggled to establish himself at Stamford Bridge and is now considered surplus to requirements.

He still has three years left on his deal, and the Blues are demanding a £40 million release clause, which could complicate a permanent move.

Dortmund are reportedly exploring another loan arrangement, potentially with a purchase option or obligation.

Talks are said to have started as far back as May, with the German club seeking a more financially viable structure.

The pursuit of Chukwuemeka follows Dortmund’s agreement to sell Jamie Gittens to Chelsea in a £55 million deal, a transfer that was delayed past the Club World Cup quarterfinal.

Chelsea have spent over £210 million this summer, but must now shift focus to outgoings to balance the books, with Chukwuemeka among several players earmarked for sale.