Fulham remain locked in talks to sign Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze from AC Milan, but the Rossoneri’s decision now hinges on the fitness of Rafael Leão. According to Corriere dello Sport, Milan are caught in a dilemma: they need to raise funds through sales but risk leaving themselves short of attacking options if Leão is not fit.
The 26-year-old Chukwueze, who joined Milan from Villarreal in 2023, has been on Fulham’s radar since January, when a late-window bid collapsed due to lack of time. This time, Marco Silva’s side are pushing for a loan with option to buy, giving them flexibility in what has been a tight summer market at Craven Cottage.
Milan’s management, however, are undecided. While they ideally want to cash in on Chukwueze to fund reinforcements, Leão’s injury leaves them with limited depth on the wings. Today’s training session with the Portuguese forward could decide whether Fulham’s move accelerates before deadline day.
Could Fulham finally get their man — or will Leão’s fitness stall the deal again?
Why Fulham Want Chukwueze
Marco Silva has been clear about needing another wide option. Fulham’s attack has lacked depth and unpredictability. Chukwueze, with his explosive pace and 1v1 dribbling ability, offers a direct threat that fits perfectly into Silva’s counter-attacking blueprint.
The Nigerian’s versatility across both flanks also adds tactical variety, allowing Fulham to rotate effectively in a gruelling Premier League campaign.
Milan’s Dilemma: Funds vs. Depth
AC Milan are under financial pressure to sanction sales before making late additions. While Chukwueze is a logical candidate to move on, Rafael Leão’s availability is critical. If Leão proves fit in training today, Milan may give the green light to Chukwueze’s departure.
If not, the Rossoneri risk entering the Lecce clash with just Christian Pulisic as their senior wide man. That scenario could force them to stall or demand a higher obligation-to-buy clause from Fulham.
“Fulham are serious about Chukwueze, but Milan’s decision depends on Leão’s fitness. A training session today is crucial.” — Corriere dello Sport
Samuel Chukwueze 2024/25 Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Samuel Chukwueze |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 22 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Pass Accuracy | 82% |
source: sofascore match data – 26 August 2025
These numbers underline why Fulham are keen: while Chukwueze hasn’t exploded in Serie A, his pace and creativity remain highly valued. For Fulham, he represents a proven profile available at a price within their reach.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William says Fulham’s persistence makes sense:
“Chukwueze is tailor-made for the Premier League. His pace, directness and ability to unsettle defenders would give Fulham something they currently lack. The stumbling block is Milan’s situation with Leão — until that’s resolved, this deal won’t move.”
He added: “For Milan, it’s a balancing act. Selling Chukwueze brings much-needed funds, but without Leão, it could weaken their season start. Fulham must hope today’s training clears the way.”
Key Insights
- Fulham pushing hard for Chukwueze loan with option to buy.
- AC Milan need sales but fear losing depth with Leão injured.
- Training session today could unlock decision.
- Fulham failed to land Chukwueze in January 2025.
- Player verbally open to move — Premier League lure strong.
What’s Next
Fulham will keep pressing talks in the coming hours, hoping for a swift resolution. If Leão is cleared fit, Milan may finally sanction Chukwueze’s departure and negotiations will speed up.
Roma, Nottingham Forest and Marseille have all been busy in the same market spaces — so Fulham need to move quickly if they want to avoid another late collapse like January’s.
Should Fulham push harder for a permanent deal now — or gamble on a loan with option to buy?
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