Mykhailo Mudryk appears set to leave Stamford Bridge this summer after receiving clearance to resume his football career.
The Ukrainian international has taken part in Chelsea’s pre-season preparations, with a move away from the club now on the cards.
Leeds United have submitted an opening loan proposal for Mudryk, only for Chelsea to reject their initial approach. The Yorkshire club remains eager to secure his services for the entire campaign.
Discussions between the two clubs continue, though no agreement has been reached as of yet.
Mudryk received a significant boost when the doping allegations against him were dismissed during the close season. The winger has been unavailable for Premier League action since the west London side’s 1-1 stalemate with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on November 10, 2024.
Several clubs are believed to be tracking Mudryk’s circumstances, with Chelsea open to sending him elsewhere on loan to allow him to accumulate more senior appearances.
The 23-year-old, who relocated to west London from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 after a £89m transfer, could yet secure a temporary switch before the transfer window closes.
Leeds’ first proposal failed to meet Chelsea’s valuation requirements, though the East Yorkshire outfit may revisit their interest.
This comes after Leeds prioritized strengthening their defensive options during the transfer window. Centre-backs Tarik Muharemovic and Nico Elvedi arrived from Sassuolo and Borussia Monchengladbach respectively, with the pair costing a combined £39m.
The club also shattered their previous transfer record by acquiring goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City for £40m.
Up front, Leeds’ sole acquisition has been Harry Wilson, who arrived at Elland Road on a free transfer upon the expiration of his Fulham contract.
The need for additional firepower was heightened after the club sanctioned a loan move for Joel Piroe to West Ham, with the switch set to become permanent should the Hammers achieve promotion back to the Championship.
Head coach Daniel Farke has emphasised the requirement for further attacking reinforcements. Following the pre-season encounter with AC Milan, Farke acknowledged that the squad had not strengthened in forward areas compared to their Championship-winning team. He noted the side requires players capable of contributing goals and assists to compete effectively in a demanding top-flight season.
Leeds kick off their top-flight return with an away fixture against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.