Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has signed for Southampton on mortgage for the 2024/25 season.
The Saints are again within the Premier League after spending one season within the Championship, defeating Leeds United within the play-off closing to ebook a direct return to the highest flight.
Russell Martin’s aspect have been busy making modifications to their squad for the marketing campaign forward, and so they have accomplished the seize of 20-year-old Ugochukwu for the remainder of the season.
“I really feel very comfortable. Southampton has an excellent historical past. Quite a lot of nice gamers came visiting right here and performed for Southampton, so I am very comfortable to be a part of the workforce now,” Ugochukwu mentioned.
“It was a very simple resolution. They simply got here again to Premier League. After I heard Southampton, once I spoke to the gaffer as properly, I mentioned, ‘I’ve to come back right here’.
“I am simply right here to work laborious and provides every part for the followers and for myself as properly.”
Saints boss Martin added: “Lesley is a superb athlete who has all of the components to be a extremely prime participant sooner or later, and we wish to assist him obtain that. He combines his dimension and energy with actual composure in possession.
“He is one other younger participant we have introduced in who has sampled the Premier League already, which is essential, and somebody we really feel will help us within the midfield space with the physicality that he brings to the sport.”
Ugochukwu joined Chelsea final summer time on a £23.1m deal from French aspect Rennes. He went on to make 15 appearances in all competitions throughout his debut season at Stamford Bridge.
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