Chelsea new boy Carney Chukwuemeka has been hailed as one of Europe's "most exciting young players" by owner Todd Boehly, who confirmed the teenager won't be heading out on loan.
The Blues have captured the signing of the 18-year-old from Aston Villa after it became clear he wasn't going to sign a new deal at Villa Park. Chukwuemeka has now signed a six-year deal in west London, but like a host of their other young players, won't be going out temporarily to further his development.
Instead, Chukwuemeka is poised to get opportunities in the Chelsea first-team this term, having made 15 appearances for Villa last season. The midfielder has joined in a £20m deal with Boehly speaking highly of the club's latest recruit.
He told the club's website : "Carney is one of the most exciting young players in Europe so we are really looking forward to seeing him in action at Stamford Bridge. We are delighted to be able to bring him to Chelsea and add such a talented young individual to our squad for the new season and beyond."
Chelsea have shown an increased willingness to back youth in recent seasons having long been criticised for neglecting their impressive academy. The likes of Mason Mount and Reece James are now key members of the first-team whilst others continue to get minutes.
Chukwuemeka said on his arrival: "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. 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."
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His move to Cobham will come as a blow to Villa, who had been keen to keep their teenage prodigy. Steven Gerrard made it known that he felt Chukwuemeka's progress would be best served in the Midlands with the club tabling an offer to keep him.
"Carney is yet to sign a contract offer that has been in place for some time now. I've decided the best thing for him would be to continue his training programme back at Bodymoor," Gerrard told Villa TV previously.
Chukwuemeka had failed to travel on Villa's pre-season tour to Australia after rejecting a new deal, which seemed to suggest he was going to be on the move. He was free to negotiate with clubs from January ahead of a free transfer next summer, but Chelsea have acted early to secure his services.
