Premier League clubs Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and West Ham have been linked with a move for Nigeria star Samuel Chukwueze this summer, footynaija.com reports.
Leading the race, West Ham United have begun laying the groundwork for a possible move for Chukwueze.
The London club are understood to have opened informal discussions to assess the 26-year-old’s availability ahead of the next transfer window. Reports in Spain suggest enquiries have already been made regarding his situation at AC Milan.
🚨 AC Milan are confident Fulham will exercise their £21M option-to-buy for 26-year-old Nigeria winger Samuel Chukwueze, who is on loan at the Cottagers.
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 10, 2026
(Source: @Gazzetta_it) pic.twitter.com/odRTtnIKFd
Chukwueze remains on the Italian side’s books but is currently rebuilding his career on loan at Fulham, where his performances have steadily improved.
While he has not always been among Marco Silva’s automatic starters, the winger has made a strong impression when called upon, contributing three goals and four assists in 12 league appearances. His impact has been particularly notable given his mid-season absence for international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.
West Ham are not alone in monitoring his progress. Crystal Palace and Aston Villa are also believed to be following developments closely, while Fulham reportedly hold an option to turn the loan into a permanent deal for a fee in the region of £21 million. Milan, for their part, are said to be open to cashing in should their valuation be met, opening the door to a potential bidding race.
Chukwueze’s renewed form in England comes after an impressive spell in Spain with Villarreal, where he established himself as one of La Liga’s most explosive wide attackers, scoring 37 goals and providing 29 assists in over 200 appearances. The winger also has seven goals in 55 games for Nigeria.
⚽️ Emile Smith Rowe
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) February 10, 2026
⚽️ Alex Iwobi
⚽️⚽️ Samuel Chukwueze
Madness against Man City. 🤪 pic.twitter.com/I2y7KpyQXK
Although his move to Milan promised a step forward, inconsistency in Italy stalled his momentum before he switched to the Premier League.
Now back playing with confidence and purpose, the Nigerian’s pace, direct running and end product have once again made him a sought-after asset. With several clubs circling and Milan willing to negotiate, the coming months could prove decisive for one of Nigeria’s most recognisable attacking talents.
















