Samuel Chukwueze is set to return to AC Milan after Fulham reportedly decided against activating the option to sign the Nigerian winger on a permanent deal following his loan spell in the Premier League.
Chukwueze joined Fulham on a season-long loan from AC Milan last summer, with the London club holding an option to make the transfer permanent for a reported fee of €24 million.
Despite earlier reports suggesting Fulham were prepared to trigger the clause, fresh reports from Italian media indicate the Cottagers have now decided against completing a permanent move for the Nigeria international.
Samuel Chukwueze for AC Milan. Photocredit: Getty image
According to Tuttomercatoweb, Chukwueze is expected to return to San Siro this summer as Fulham step away from negotiations over a full transfer.
The winger enjoyed a mixed campaign in England, contributing three goals and four assists during the 2025/26 season, but his performances were seemingly not enough to convince Fulham to make a long-term commitment.
Chukwueze’s return comes at a delicate moment for AC Milan, with the Serie A giants undergoing major structural changes after a disappointing campaign.
The 27-year-old originally joined AC Milan from Spanish side Villarreal in 2023 amid high expectations but struggled to establish himself consistently at the club.
During his first spell with the Rossoneri, Chukwueze managed only four goals in 51 league appearances, enduring an inconsistent run before eventually departing on loan.
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Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport reports that Chukwueze is one of three players expected to return to Milanello this summer, alongside Yunus Musah and Ismael Bennacer, potentially disrupting AC Milan’s transfer plans and denying the club a combined windfall reportedly worth around €60 million.
Samuel Chukwueze is set to return to AC Milan after Fulham reportedly decided against activating the €24 million option to sign the Nigerian winger permanently.
However, Chukwueze’s long-term future at AC Milan remains uncertain.
The winger still has two years left on his current contract, but a new managerial appointment could prove decisive in determining whether he stays or moves again.
AC Milan are preparing for a new era after missing out on UEFA Champions League qualification following a disappointing Serie A campaign. The club’s struggles triggered sweeping changes behind the scenes, with major departures expected as the Rossoneri seek to rebuild.
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Reports in Italy have linked former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola with the managerial position, although the club is yet to officially confirm its next head coach.
The coming weeks could be crucial for Chukwueze as he waits to discover whether he still has a future at one of Italy’s biggest clubs or must seek another fresh start elsewhere in Europe.
