Chelsea signs Chukwuemeka from Premier League rivals Aston Villa

The 18-year-old becomes the fourth signing by the Thomas Tuchel-managed side and will join in on a six-year deal.

Chukwuemeka was part of the English side which won the Under-19 European Championship last month. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Chelsea have signed promising teenage midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka from Aston Villa on a six-year contract, both Premier League clubs said on Thursday.

The teams announced on Tuesday that they had reached an agreement for the transfer and that the England youth international had been given permission to travel to London and discuss personal terms.

Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed but British media reported the deal was worth 20 million pounds. ($24.35 million).

Chukwuemeka joined Villa’s academy from Northampton Town in 2016 and made his senior debut in 2021. He played 12 times in the league last season as the Birmingham-based club finished 14th.

“It’s been quite hectic but I couldn’t get Chelsea out of my head the last few days so I’m just happy and relieved that it’s all done,” Chukwuemeka, 18, told Chelsea’s website.

“I’m so excited and just can’t wait to get on the pitch, meet all the players and try to win games and trophies with Chelsea.”

Chukwuemeka, who won the Under-19 European Championship with England last month, becomes Chelsea’s fourth signing of the current transfer window.

Thomas Tuchel’s side have brought in England forward Raheem Sterling from Manchester City and Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli.

On Tuesday, Chelsea completed a move for teenage goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina but the American will remain on loan at MLS side Chicago Fire for the 2022-23 season.

Chelsea begin their league campaign at Everton on Saturday.