Chelsea’s midfield clear-out is gaining pace. Just hours after Armando Broja sealed his exit, Lesley Ugochukwu has now agreed to join Burnley on a permanent transfer, with his medical scheduled in the next 24–48 hours. David Ornstein first confirmed the move, with all terms finalised between both clubs and the player. Meanwhile, Burnley, newly promoted under Scott Parker, are moving with intent — and clearly serious about Premier League survival.
Midfield reboot for Burnley begins
Burnley have made their move with purpose. The 20-year-old, who has struggled to impress under Enzo Maresca, is on the way to Turf Moor. Ugochukwu, who in 2023 signed for £23m from Rennes, played only 14 senior games at Chelsea.
He played 31 games, with one goal and two assists in the Championship during the 2024/25 season whilst on loan at Southampton. Accordingly, Burnley look at him as a possible all-rounder — able to play in centre of midfield in box-to-box and holding roles.
Burnley have offered a multi-year contract, and Ugochukwu has already agreed to personal terms. Burnley’s staff have penciled in his medical within the next 24–48 hours, and the move will become official shortly after. Scott Parker has reportedly pushed for his arrival, impressed by Ugochukwu’s athletic profile and long-term potential to develop into a Premier League-ready midfielder.
🚨🟣 After Armando Broja, Lesley Ugochukwu also leaves Chelsea and joins Burnley on permanent deal.
Ugochukwu has also accepted, as @David_Ornstein reports.
Agreement done for both players with Chelsea going fast on outgoings… and Dewsbury-Hall to Everton, next. ✅👀 pic.twitter.com/AorJq0mPJI
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 4, 2025
Chelsea waste no time in trimming squad
Chelsea are rapidly streamlining their bloated squad ahead of the new season. Ugochukwu becomes the second confirmed permanent departure within 48 hours, following Broja’s exit. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall looks set to follow, as Everton push to finalise the deal with only minor details left to settle.
Chelsea already packed their midfield — Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia, Andrey Santos, Dewsbury-Hall (likely to leave), and new signing Dario Essugo are all battling for limited spots. These exits are strategic — helping free up space, raise funds, and fully back Maresca’s tactical rebuild.
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