Chelsea turn down Leeds loan approach for Mykhailo Mudryk as Premier League move remains possible

Chelsea have rejected Leeds United’s proposal to sign Mykhailo Mudryk on a season-long loan, but the Ukraine winger remains open to moving to Elland Road before the summer transfer window closes.

The two clubs held discussions over the weekend, but Chelsea decided the terms offered by Leeds were not acceptable. The Stamford Bridge club would prefer Mudryk to join a side that can guarantee him a significant amount of regular playing time during the season.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Chelsea do not currently regard Leeds as a viable option. However, Mudryk is still willing to consider the move, meaning the deal could yet return to the agenda before the transfer deadline.

Chelsea are also assessing alternative proposals from clubs in England and across Europe. Strasbourg, the club that shares ownership links with Chelsea, remain interested in signing Mudryk, while Brentford are also monitoring the situation.

Mudryk’s preference is to remain in the Premier League, which could influence the next stage of negotiations. Chelsea and the player are understood to agree that spending the season playing regularly away from Stamford Bridge could benefit his development.

Mudryk has not played in a competitive match for Chelsea since November 2024. He became eligible to return to first-team football after his doping case was resolved during the summer.

The 24-year-old featured for Xabi Alonso’s side during pre-season and made a positive impression. However, Chelsea have a wide range of attacking options competing for places, including Pedro Neto, Geovany Quenda, Jamie Gittens, Estevao, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers.

That competition has increased the possibility of a temporary move, particularly if Chelsea believe Mudryk would benefit from a sustained run of matches elsewhere. His ability to play regularly is expected to be a central consideration as the club decides whether to accept one of the other offers available.

Alonso praised Mudryk’s qualities during pre-season and described him as a special player. The Chelsea manager also recalled following the winger during his time at Shakhtar, highlighting his capacity to influence matches, particularly in one-on-one situations and when creating opportunities through individual skill.

Alonso nevertheless stressed that Mudryk’s return would require time. The Ukraine international has been away from competitive football for an extended period, and Chelsea must weigh his need for regular action against their own squad requirements.

A social media update attributed to Jacobs said: “Mykhailo Mudryk prefers to remain in the Premier League. As of Monday morning, Chelsea do not consider Leeds a viable option, yet Mudryk is open to a move to Elland Road. Chelsea have several options for Mudryk, including Strasbourg. Remains to be seen if Leeds still attempt…”

The coming days are expected to determine Mudryk’s destination, with Chelsea continuing to review the available options before the summer transfer window closes.