Burnley have bolstered their midfield with the capture of French youngster, Lesley Ugochukwu from Chelsea in a deal believed to be worth over £20 million.
The 21-year-old has committed to a five-year contract at Turf Moor, becoming the Clarets’ seventh signing of the summer as manager Scott Parker continues to reshape his squad.
Although the transfer fee remains officially undisclosed, sources suggest it closely matches the £23.2 million Chelsea paid Rennes for Ugochukwu’s services in 2023.
“Burnley Football Club are delighted to confirm the signing of French midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu,” read a statement from the club. “The talented 21-year-old joins from Chelsea on a five-year deal, with the Clarets fending off strong interest from several Premier League and European clubs.”
Ugochukwu’s departure comes amid Chelsea’s ongoing squad overhaul, with the midfielder among a group of players deemed surplus to requirements under new head coach Enzo Maresca.
The so-called ‘bomb squad’ includes high-profile names such as Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell, who have been training separately from the main squad.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, Ugochukwu made 15 appearances across all competitions in his debut season.
He was then sent out on loan to Southampton for the 2024–25 campaign before Burnley moved to secure a permanent deal.