Fabrizio Romano has revealed Chelsea’s latest transfer movements as the club pushes to bring Xavi Simons to Stamford Bridge.
The RB Leipzig forward is Chelsea’s top target in the closing days of the window, but negotiations have proven difficult. To free up space in the squad, the Blues have sanctioned the exit of Carney Chukwuemeka to Borussia Dortmund.
Romano shared the update on X, writing:
“Carney Chukwuemeka to Borussia Dortmund, here we go! Agreement sealed and plan approved. Chelsea will receive around €25m plus add-ons, with a major sell-on clause included as part of the deal.”
Chukwuemeka previously spent the latter half of last season on loan at Dortmund, making 13 appearances. The 21-year-old now returns to Germany on a permanent basis.
This transfer was one of two deals between the clubs. Young Argentine defender Aaron Anselmino has also completed a move to Dortmund, though he joins only on a loan spell. Dortmund, meanwhile, began their Bundesliga campaign with a 3-3 draw against St Pauli.
Chelsea’s Transfer Balancing Act
Chukwuemeka’s departure is part of Chelsea’s strategy to create room for Simons, but more sales are expected before the Dutch star can be signed. Christopher Nkunku is another player who could leave, with Bayern Munich and Leipzig both interested in the France international.
In addition, Chelsea recently sold Renato Veiga to Villarreal, further reducing squad numbers under Enzo Maresca.
Financially, the Blues are edging closer to balancing their spending. Having invested around €280m in new signings this summer, they’ve already generated €201m from sales – and that figure will rise once Chukwuemeka’s transfer is finalised.