Chelsea have rejected an initial season-long loan offer from Leeds United for winger Mykhailo Mudryk, with negotiations between the two clubs continuing.
The opening proposal fell short of Chelsea’s valuation, but Leeds remain interested in the Ukraine international, who is reportedly keen on a move to Elland Road.
Mudryk, 25, has agreed in principle to spend the season away from Stamford Bridge as he looks to rebuild his match fitness following a 20-month absence from football.
The winger’s suspension after testing positive for the banned substance meldonium ended in July. He has since returned to action during Chelsea’s pre-season tour under new manager Xabi Alonso, making several substitute appearances.
Mudryk has indicated that he would prefer to remain in the Premier League despite interest from Strasbourg, Chelsea’s sister club under the BlueCo ownership group, as well as clubs in Italy.
Leeds have emerged as the frontrunners because they are prepared to take Mudryk without a purchase option. The arrangement would allow Chelsea to retain control over his long-term future while Leeds cover his salary.
The Whites have already added four players this summer, signing forward Harry Wilson from Fulham, centre-back Tarik Muharemovic from Sassuolo, goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City and defender Nico Elvedi from Borussia Monchengladbach.
Chelsea striker Liam Delap had also attracted interest from Leeds, although their pursuit of the England forward has since cooled.
Brentford were previously considered another potential destination for Mudryk, but Chelsea rejected their preference for a loan deal with an option to make the move permanent.
The Bees had attempted to sign Mudryk several months before Chelsea completed his transfer from Shakhtar Donetsk for an initial £61 million in January 2023 and remain interested in the winger.
Coventry City have also expressed an interest, while Strasbourg remain an option. Chelsea are also exploring the possibility of sending other players, including midfielder Dario Essugo, to the French club.
Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Mudryk staying at Stamford Bridge is considered unlikely, although Chelsea have not completely ruled out the possibility.
