By Ephraim Nwosu
Samuel Chukwueze is interested in a move to a new European club in the summer, although he insists he is happy at Villarreal. Chukwueze will become a free agent in June, 2024 when his Villarreal deal is expected to expire. The 23-year-old who has netted 13 goals and 11 assists in all competitions is among a wave of Nigerian players blowing up in Europe this season, leaving the like of Real Madrid, AC Milan, Aston Villa and Everon on red alert.
The Nigerian scored twice for Villarreal in the famous 3-2 win at the Santiago Bernabeu last week Saturday, in a performance that could end up helping him secure a move to the Spanish capital.
Marca reports that Los Blancos have been impressed by the forward, with president Florentino Perez dreaming of having Chukwueze on one flank and Vinicius Junior on the other.
According to media reports out of Spain, mighty Real Madrid are interested in signing Chukwueze and are ready to cough out
Villarreal’s €80 Million buyout clause on the Super Eagles star.
There are unconfirmed report that Chukwueze had ruled out moving to Italy or England and would accept any offer from Real Madrid. Contrary to the report, mentor of the former Golden Eaglets forward, Victor Apugo says Chukwueze is open to all clubs when it comes to possible transfers, but concedes that playing for Real Madrid would be a dream come true if the opportunity presents itself.
“Inasmuch as Real Madrid is a great club Chukwueze holds in high esteem, he won’t shut the door on other European clubs. He is also open to other clubs who are ready to discuss with him.”
It’s not all about the status of the club or money but the interest of his future. For now he is happy at Villarreal and wants to focus on his club career. I am confident that at the end of the day, Chukwueze and his staff will take the best decision that will befit his career,” Apugo who discovered Chukwueze at Diamond Football Academy, Umuahia told SportingSun on phone from Umuahia.
Chukwueze became the first player to complete seven dribbles in a La Liga match against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu (seven out of eight) since Lionel Messi in April 2017 (seven out of 11).