Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk is a potential candidate for a loan move, with Coventry City among the clubs showing interest. The 25-year-old Ukrainian international has recently returned to competitive football after a period of suspension.
Chelsea is reportedly open to sanctioning a loan for Mudryk, and at least three Premier League clubs have made enquiries. Coventry City is one of these clubs, and their manager, Frank Lampard, has a prior working relationship with Mudryk from their time together at Stamford Bridge.
Another option for Mudryk could be Strasbourg, Chelsea’s sister club. FIFA regulations permit a maximum of three players to be loaned to a specific club from another side at any given time. Chelsea has already sent Genesis Antwi and Filip Jorgensen to Strasbourg, meaning one more player could potentially join them.
Mudryk’s return to Chelsea follows the resolution of disciplinary proceedings against him. The FA confirmed his eligibility to return to the club towards the end of last month. He had not participated in a competitive match since November 2024 after testing positive for meldonium.
A change in the scientific reporting standards by WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) for meldonium analysis means that a similar situation today would not lead to a suspension. Despite the competitive match absence, Mudryk did feature in Chelsea’s final three pre-season tour matches.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso stated last week that a decision regarding Mudryk’s future had not yet been made. Alonso described Mudryk as a “special player” and his case as “special,” requiring a sensitive assessment.
During Chelsea’s pre-season preparations in Hong Kong, Mudryk reportedly showed a noticeable change in his demeanor after his suspension was lifted. Sources indicate that he appeared more open and engaged with club staff, a contrast to his previously reserved nature.
The club’s players and staff reportedly observed a different person upon his arrival in Hong Kong. He was described as smiling, ready to interact, and speaking extensively with various club employees. This shift in behavior was highlighted by an instance during a friendly match against Juventus.
In that match, forward Nicolas Jackson reportedly arranged with Alonso to be substituted, despite having just entered the game himself, to allow Mudryk to play his first match for Chelsea in 21 months. Mudryk officially returned to Chelsea on August 3, following the cancellation of his four-year suspension, and made his first pre-season friendly appearance against Juventus on August 5.
Other transfer market updates
In other transfer news, Barcelona is reportedly pursuing Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri, with a second bid worth £51.3m said to be lodged. Inter Milan is in discussions with Tottenham for a deal to sign England right-back Djed Spence for 30m euros (£25.6m), and the 26-year-old is reportedly keen on a move to the Serie A champions.
Manchester United is prioritising Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall, with the 21-year-old England international reportedly favouring a move to Old Trafford. Manchester United is also considering an opening bid for Club Brugge left-back Joaquin Seys, who is valued at £30m.
Chelsea and Manchester United have been offered the opportunity to sign England midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly, as Arsenal might be open to selling the 19-year-old following the arrival of Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes, 28, from Newcastle.
Manchester United also made a move to sign Real Madrid and Brazil forward Endrick, 20, on loan, but manager Jose Mourinho reportedly wants to keep him at the Spanish side beyond the summer. Napoli is exploring a deal for Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus, but Arsenal would only consider selling the 29-year-old if offers begin at 20m euros.
Iliman Ndiaye, the 26-year-old Everton and Senegal winger, has turned down an offer to move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, reportedly wishing to continue in the Premier League. Everton is actively seeking to sign a right-back within the next seven to 10 days, with targets including Celtic and Canada’s Alistair Johnston, 27, West Ham and DR Congo’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka, 28, and Genoa’s 22-year-old Englishman Brooke Norton-Cuffy.
Additionally, Crystal Palace’s England centre-back Mofe Jemide, 19, is reportedly nearing a move to Alverca in Portugal’s top division.
Mudryk’s return and future considerations
Mudryk’s return to the team has been accompanied by a notable change in his interactions with club staff and players. This shift in behavior was observed during Chelsea’s pre-season training camp in Hong Kong.
The club’s new primary left-wing option is Morgan Rogers. Other players who have impressed during pre-season and can play on the left include Jamie Gittens and Geovany Quenda. Pedro Neto, who is available for sale this summer, can also be utilised on both flanks.
Mudryk’s first appearance since November 2024 was in a pre-season friendly against Juventus on August 5.
Source: bbc.co.uk