SAINTS are in talks to sign Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu on loan for the duration of the season, the Daily Echo understands.
Ugochukwu is a 20 year old six-foot three-inch tall ball-playing midfielder who arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2023 for a £25million fee.
A France under-21 international, he made 12 appearances for the Blues in the Premier League last season and is a part of their long-term plans.
The Athletic first reported that Saints are in advanced talks to sign Ugochukwu on a straight season-long loan with no option to buy the player permanently.
Lesley Ugochukwu's goal against Inter Milan in Chelsea's last preseason game was spectacular. 💥 pic.twitter.com/gOPUgiUuUE
— Football View Hub (@FootballViewHub) August 11, 2024
They added that Saints and manager Russell Martin are seen as the perfect next step for the midfielder, who represented former club Stade Rennes in Europe.
Ugochukwu's arrival could open the door for midfielder Shea Charles to leave on loan, with Scottish giants Celtic reported as interested.
Martin had ruled out a temporary exit for the Northern Ireland international without further reinforcements in his position first.
Saints are not expecting a deal for Ugochuckwu to be finalised this weekend but are hopeful of landing the French starlet.
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