Exclusive: Chukwueze Breaks Silence on Milan Future Amid Interest from Fenerbahçe, Villarreal, and Saudi Clubs

Nigerian forward Samuel Chukwueze has responded to transfer speculation linking him with José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe a potential return to Villarreal and Saudi Pro League club, saying he remains an AC Milan player "for now".

The 25-year-old winger joined Milan in a €35m move from Villarreal two seasons ago but has struggled to replicate his La Liga form in Serie A.

His future at the Italian club is now uncertain following a series of coaching changes and reported lack of trust from new manager Massimiliano Allegri.

Struggles at San Siro

Chukwueze arrived at Milan with high expectations but has yet to fully establish himself. Since joining, he has played under three different managers—Stefano Pioli, Paulo Fonseca, and Sérgio Conceição. Fonseca, reportedly the only coach who showed faith in him, was sacked midway through last season.

His replacement, Conceição, was also recently dismissed and replaced by former Juventus boss Allegri. According to reports in Italy, the new coach has informed Chukwueze that he is not in his plans for next season and is free to leave.

Saudi, Turkey, and Spain all possible destinations

Chukwueze has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, while Turkish giants Fenerbahçe—now managed by José Mourinho—are said to be interested in his services. His former club Villarreal are also reportedly monitoring the situation.

Speaking with SportsBoom.com during the Unity Cup with Nigeria’s national team in London, Chukwueze declined to confirm any specific plans.

“It depends on what comes my way, but for now, I’m a Milan player, and I don’t want to say much about my future. I just have to stay focused and prepare myself mentally.”

When asked about a potential return to Villarreal, the Nigerian international kept his cards close.

“Right now, I don’t know—time will tell, and it depends on what happens. Nobody knows what the future holds.”

Popular figure in Milan dressing room

Despite his on-pitch struggles, Chukwueze remains a well-liked figure at Milan and shares strong bonds with several teammates, including Nigerian-born English internationals Tammy Abraham and Fikayo Tomori.

Abraham spent last season on loan at the club from AS Roma before returning to his parent side. Tomori, meanwhile, has been linked with a return to the Premier League.

“Tammy is a fighter—very good and a complete player. He’s a forward you can’t underrate,” Chukwueze said.

“For Fikayo, he is so strong and amazingly talented. He’s also very fast, and I think he has everything it takes to become a top defender.”

“These guys pushed me a lot and talked to me as well, especially when things weren’t going well. They’re like family to me. Of course, there’s the Nigerian connection between us—we’re very close.”

Focus on domestic success

With Milan not competing in European competitions next season, Chukwueze believes the team must prioritise domestic silverware.

“It was a rough [season] for Milan last season, and I think next season we need to focus on the Italian Cup and the Scudetto.”

“Losing the Coppa Italia final (to Bologna) was really tough for everyone at the club—not just the players, but the coaching staff too. We wanted to win and qualify for Europe, but it didn’t happen," he concluded.