AC Milan is reportedly confident that Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze will finalize a permanent transfer to the English Premier League this summer. The Italian club is increasingly optimistic that Fulham, where Chukwueze is currently on a successful loan spell, will activate his permanent buy option. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, this potential deal is valued at €24 million, a figure corroborated by Fichajes, which reports a range of £21.7 million to £26 million.

This transfer would provide a significant financial boost for AC Milan, particularly ahead of the 2026-27 season. Milan's eagerness to offload Chukwueze is also influenced by manager Max Allegri's 3-5-2 system, which does not accommodate a traditional winger, making his departure a strategic move for the club.

Samuel Chukwueze has made a strong impression at Craven Cottage, despite his season being briefly hampered by injuries and his participation in AFCON 2025. During the tournament, he started three games and contributed two assists. For Fulham, the 26-year-old winger has recorded three goals and four assists across all competitions. Since returning from international duty, he has quickly re-established himself in Marco Silva's starting lineup, featuring prominently in recent matches against Manchester United and Everton, thereby proving to be a key component of Fulham's attacking strategy. Fulham currently holds the 10th position in the Premier League standings, and Chukwueze’s pace and direct style have added a new dimension to their offense. Milan officials are convinced that his recent impressive form will be sufficient to persuade the London club to make his move permanent at the end of the season.

However, Fulham now faces competition for Chukwueze's signature, as another Premier League club has registered interest. West Ham United has reportedly entered the race for the Super Eagles winger and is prepared to battle Fulham in the summer transfer window. The Hammers have a long-standing interest in Chukwueze, having previously explored signing him before his move to AC Milan in the summer of 2023. This interest has been rekindled, with the West Ham hierarchy keen on acquiring pacy wingers to complement Nuno Espírito Santo's counterattacking style, adding him to an arsenal that already includes players like Pablo, Taty Castellanos, and Adama Traore. Per the report, West Ham has made an enquiry and is willing to pay the required fee to secure his signature. Nevertheless, their ability to finalize the move hinges on avoiding relegation this season, as they currently sit 18th in the Premier League standings.