Samuel Chukwueze: Super Eagles star packs bags at Fulham, returns to AC Milan

Nigeria winger Samuel Chukwueze is set to return to AC Milan after Fulham FC decided not to activate the option to sign him permanently following his season-long loan spell in England, Afrik-Foot reports.

Chukwueze moved to Craven Cottage in September 2025 in search of regular football after finding opportunities limited at the San Siro. The move also reunited him with fellow Super Eagles stars Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, who were already established members of Fulham’s squad.

When the deal was agreed, there was optimism that the 26-year-old could revive his career in the Premier League and eventually earn a permanent move. Fulham reportedly secured an option to buy the winger for a fee believed to be between €24 million and €30 million.

However, after reviewing his performances throughout the campaign, the London club chose not to proceed with the transfer.

Chukwueze, who would like to remain in London, featured in 24 matches across all competitions, including 23 Premier League appearances and one EFL Cup outing. During those games, he scored three goals and provided four assists, registering seven direct goal contributions in 1,117 minutes of football.

While those numbers represented useful contributions, Fulham’s decision-makers felt they were not enough to justify the significant financial commitment required to complete a permanent deal.

The season proved to be one of mixed fortunes for the former Villarreal winger. He showed flashes of the pace, dribbling ability and creativity, but consistency remained an issue.

His brightest period came between late November 2025 and January 2026. During a six-match stretch, Chukwueze scored two goals and supplied three assists, forming an effective partnership with Iwobi and becoming one of Fulham’s most dangerous attacking threats.

Despite that impressive run, he struggled to secure a regular starting place under manager Marco Silva. Thirteen of his 23 Premier League appearances came as a substitute, limiting his chances of building momentum across the season.

Samuel Chukwueze: Uncertain future awaits at AC Milan

With Fulham stepping away from a permanent transfer, Samuel Chukwueze will now return to Milan, where questions remain about his long-term future.

The Italian giants are expected to undergo major changes this summer as they reshape their squad ahead of the new campaign. Reports from Italy suggest that Milan’s hierarchy no longer see the Nigerian international as a key part of their future plans.

Instead, the club are believed to be open to selling him permanently during the transfer window if a suitable offer arrives.

That situation is already attracting interest from elsewhere. Premier League side Everton FC have reportedly continued to monitor Chukwueze’s situation and could emerge as one of the leading candidates for his signature.

A move to Everton would offer an intriguing opportunity. The club have long sought direct, pacey wingers capable of carrying the ball over long distances and attacking defenders in one-on-one situations. These are qualities that have defined Chukwueze’s game throughout his career.

Other English clubs could also enter the race. Teams such as West Ham United, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace have tactical systems that could suit the Nigerian’s strengths, particularly his ability to exploit space on the counter-attack and cut inside from the right wing onto his stronger left foot.

At the moment, though, Chukwueze’s time at Fulham has come to an end.