Samuel Chukwueze Set to Return to AC Milan After Fulham Decline €25-30 Million Purchase Option

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze is set to return to AC Milan this summer after Fulham decided against exercising their option to purchase the Nigerian international on a permanent basis, according to reports in Italian media.

The 27-year-old joined Fulham on a season-long loan ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, with the Cottagers holding a reported purchase option valued at between €25 million and €30 million. Despite expectations that the move would be made permanent following a debut season in English football, Fulham’s hierarchy ultimately concluded that Chukwueze’s contributions did not justify the outlay.

During his time at Craven Cottage, Chukwueze recorded three goals and four assists — moments of quality that were, according to reports, offset by a level of inconsistency that gave the club’s decision-makers pause. The feeling within Fulham’s management was reportedly that his overall output fell short of what would be required to commit to a deal in that price range.

Chukwueze originally moved to AC Milan from Villarreal in 2023, arriving at San Siro with considerable expectations built on the back of a standout spell at the Spanish club. However, his time in Italy was hampered by limited playing time and performances that failed to meet those initial expectations, eventually prompting the loan arrangement to Fulham.

His imminent return to Milan comes at a particularly turbulent period for the club. The Italian giants are in the midst of a significant rebuild following the dismissal of head coach Max Allegri, and Chukwueze’s status within the new project remains unclear. With his position at the club in doubt, the upcoming transfer window could prove decisive for the winger’s career trajectory.

Everton are reportedly among the clubs monitoring the situation, and sources suggest there will be considerable interest in the Nigerian once the summer market opens in earnest. At 27, Chukwueze remains at a prime age for a permanent move that could offer him the stability and regular playing time his career has so far lacked at the highest level.

The development also adds to a difficult end to the season for Nigeria’s contingent at Fulham. Chukwueze, alongside teammates Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, experienced a bittersweet final day in the Premier League, with the club’s results carrying mixed implications for the Super Eagles players involved.