Nigeria Players Abroad
Rumour Mills: Beşiktaş close in on loan deal for AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze
By Dayo Awoniyi
Turkish giants Beşiktaş are closing in on a loan deal for Nigerian international Samuel Chukwueze, with the AC Milan winger expected to complete a move to Istanbul next week, according to reports from Fanatik.
The proposed deal is structured as a season-long loan with an option to buy, giving Chukwueze the opportunity for more regular playing time after a mixed debut season in Serie A.
Chukwueze, 25, joined AC Milan from Spanish club Villarreal in the summer of 2023 for a reported €21 million fee. Despite flashes of brilliance, he struggled to secure a consistent starting role under then-manager Stefano Pioli, making 33 appearances across all competitions.
With Milan strengthening their attacking line-up further this summer, the Super Eagles winger is seen as surplus to requirements at San Siro, prompting interest from several European clubs. Beşiktaş appear to have moved ahead of Istanbul rivals Fenerbahçe in the race for his signature.
The Black Eagles view Chukwueze as a key reinforcement ahead of the 2025/26 Süper Lig season. Known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to play on either flank, Chukwueze could bring much-needed creativity and unpredictability to the team’s attack.
If the deal goes through as expected, he will join a growing list of Nigerian players in Turkey’s top flight, with fans hopeful he can rediscover the electric form that made him a standout at Villarreal and a regular feature in the Nigerian national team.
