Samuel Chukwueze “already an idol” as Fulham edge toward €30m permanent transfer

Samuel Chukwueze’s resurgence at Fulham has taken another leap forward, with reports in Italy claiming the Cottagers are now “increasingly convinced” about signing the on-loan winger permanently from AC Milan. The Nigerian has caught fire in recent weeks under Marco Silva, delivering the type of explosive form that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting prospects.

SportMediaset report that Fulham are leaning heavily toward activating their €30 million purchase option for the 26-year-old, who has quickly transformed himself from a squad player into a fan favourite at Craven Cottage. His impact has been so immediate and so influential that he is described in Italy as “already an idol” among Fulham supporters.

Chukwueze arrived from AC Milan on loan after two underwhelming seasons in Serie A, where consistency and minutes proved hard to come by. At Fulham, however, he is rediscovering the dynamism that once defined his spell at Villarreal.

The winger scored a brilliant brace against Manchester City on Tuesday — a match that showcased his pace, his 1v1 threat and his ability to change games almost single-handedly. That performance followed key contributions against Sunderland and Tottenham, where he registered an assist in both games.

After struggling to break into the team earlier this season, Chukwueze has now become a central piece in Silva’s attack.

SportMediaset claim Fulham’s satisfaction with the winger’s performances is driving their intention to secure him permanently. With form trending upward and chemistry developing rapidly with Fulham’s forward line, the club believe the €30m fee represents strong value.

On the other side of the deal, Milan are increasingly optimistic. Chukwueze’s sale would provide vital transfer funds for their rebuild. After signing him from Villarreal in 2023, the Rossoneri had expected far more than the inconsistent two-year spell that followed, with the winger never fully settling in Italy.

A permanent exit now looks like a win for all parties.

Fulham first attempted to sign Chukwueze last January, but the timing and complexity of the deal prevented it from happening then. Silva pushed hard again in the summer — and now that the Nigerian is finally in his squad, the partnership is thriving.

From the touchline, Silva has given him clarity: attack space, break lines, play with conviction and stay aggressive in the final third. Those demands align with Chukwueze’s natural qualities, and it’s clear the player feels unlocked again.

His performances have given Fulham something they have lacked for stretches: verticality, unpredictability and a winger capable of turning matches on moments of individual brilliance.

Fulham need match-winners to climb the table and compete on multiple fronts. Chukwueze gives them that. Milan need fresh funds for squad reinvestment. Chukwueze gives them that too. And the player himself needs a club that trusts him, plays to his strengths and gives him minutes — he has found that in West London.

Although some may argue it’s early to commit €30m, it’s worth remembering that Chukwueze is still entering his peak years. Fulham have the chance to sign a player who is proving he can change the direction of matches with limited minutes — imagine him after a full season of starts.

The momentum behind the transfer is building, and it is starting to feel less like a possibility and more like an inevitability.

Fulham will evaluate their options as the window approaches, but signs strongly suggest the club want Chukwueze permanently. With form rising and trust growing, the next step feels only a matter of time.

👉 Should Fulham trigger the €30m option now — or wait until later in the season?