Chelsea reject initial Leeds loan bid for Mudryk

What the report says

Chelsea have turned down Leeds United’s first proposal to take Mykhailo Mudryk on a season-long loan, according to BBC Sport Football. The opening approach did not meet Chelsea’s expectations, but talks are still ongoing, and the Ukraine winger is said to favour a move to Elland Road. Leeds are understood to be interested in a deal without a permanent transfer option, which would let Chelsea keep control of the player’s future while Leeds cover part or all of his wages.

Mudryk has agreed to spend the season away from Stamford Bridge as he looks to rebuild match fitness after a long absence from football. BBC Sport Football reported that he spent about 20 months out of the game after a positive test for the banned substance meldonium, with his ban ending in July. He has since returned to Chelsea’s pre-season tour under new manager Xabi Alonso and has made substitute appearances.

The report also says Mudryk would prefer to stay in the Premier League, despite interest from Strasbourg, other clubs in Italy and Coventry City. Brentford had previously shown interest but wanted a loan with an option to buy, which Chelsea would not accept. The article adds that a permanent stay at Chelsea appears unlikely, though it has not been completely ruled out, making the winger’s next destination an active transfer issue this summer.