Galatasaray target Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu with loan offer | OneFootball

Süper Lig champions Galatasaray have made Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu a priority target and have moved for a loan with an option to buy.

According to Turkish-Football.com, the Istanbul club want the 22-year-old French youth international to bolster their midfield for a title defence and the Champions League. Their proposal includes a €2 million loan fee for the 2026/27 season and a €22 million option to purchase.

Manager Okan Buruk is seeking greater physicality and discipline in the pivot. Chelsea are expected to push back against the structure, with decision-makers reluctant to give up long-term control and inclined towards a straight sale if they let him go.

The situation comes amid wider midfield manoeuvring at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have agreed a £25 million sale of academy graduate Tyrique George to Everton, while speculation continues around Andrey Santos and a potential £50 million move to Manchester United.

Ugochukwu spent last season in England and logged 38 competitive appearances, scoring three goals with two assists. He is understood to be prioritising regular top-flight football and a return to European competition.

Chelsea, under Xabi Alonso, are weighing whether to keep him within a robust midfield group after missing out on options such as Granit Xhaka, or to consider a strategic exit. A response to Galatasaray’s opening offer is expected in the coming days.

Source: Turkish-Football.com