
Borussia Dortmund Target New Loan Deal for Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka Amid Injury Concerns
Dortmund Reignite Interest in Chukwuemeka While Eyeing Brighton’s Buonanotte
As the summer transfer window heats up, Borussia Dortmund have turned their attention back to Carney Chukwuemeka, the talented young midfielder currently with Chelsea, hoping to secure another loan deal. This move comes as part of the club’s strategy to bolster their attacking options following the departure of Jamie Bynoe-Gittens to the Premier League side earlier in the summer.
According to a report from Sport Bild, Borussia Dortmund are exploring the possibility of bringing Chukwuemeka back on loan for the 2025–26 season after a short stint in the Bundesliga during the second half of the previous campaign. While Chelsea reportedly prefer to sell the 20-year-old outright, Borussia Dortmund remain firm in their stance—they’re not willing to meet Chelsea’s current valuation of £40 million (€46.5m). Instead, the German giants are pushing for a loan arrangement with an option to buy, citing lingering concerns over the player’s injury history.
Niko Kovac Seeks Gittens Replacement
Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac has made it clear that the club needs more firepower in the attacking third following Gittens’ exit. While Jobe Bellingham and Patrick Drewes have joined the ranks, the coaching staff and board believe they need another creative spark in the final third. Chukwuemeka fits that profile—a midfielder who can break lines, carry the ball with confidence, and add goal contributions from midfield.
Chukwuemeka’s half-season at Signal Iduna Park in 2024–25 impressed the Borussia Dortmund staff. Despite his injury setbacks, his potential was evident, and he showed glimpses of the high ceiling that once made him one of England’s brightest prospects.
The club sees this as an opportunity to secure a future star at a reasonable cost, especially with reports suggesting Chelsea may be open to lowering their demands to €25m (£21.5m) if a loan with a permanent option is included.
Carney Chukwuemeka’s Value and Career Trajectory

Carney Chukwuemeka
Still only 20 years old, Chukwuemeka’s career has been somewhat stop-start since his move from Aston Villa to Chelsea. With limited minutes in a stacked midfield and recurring fitness concerns, he has struggled to find consistent rhythm in London. However, his technical ability and vision remain unquestioned.
Dortmund’s development record with young players speaks volumes. From Jude Bellingham to Ousmane Dembélé, Erling Haaland, and Jadon Sancho, the club has made a name for itself as a launchpad for Europe’s elite young talent. For Chukwuemeka, a second spell in yellow and black could be exactly what he needs to fulfil that potential.
Buonanotte in Borussia Dortmund’s Sights
While Chukwuemeka may be the primary target, Borussia Dortmund aren’t placing all their hopes on the Chelsea man. The club has also intensified interest in Facundo Buonanotte, the promising Brighton and Argentina U20 midfielder, who has turned heads in the Premier League with his flair, quick feet, and ability to operate between the lines.
Despite interest from Lyon, Bild reports that Buonanotte has given strong indications that his preference is a move to Germany and specifically to Borussia Dortmund. With his versatility to play across the midfield or out wide, he fits perfectly into Kovac’s plans.
This pursuit also reflects Borussia Dortmund’s desire to ensure they have ample attacking options, especially with Buonanotte potentially taking on some of the creative responsibilities previously handled by Gittens or even Marco Reus, whose long-term future is uncertain.
Borussia Dortmund’s Transfer Priorities After Missing Out on Nwaneri
Borussia Dortmund had reportedly been in advanced talks to lure Ethan Nwaneri, Arsenal’s teenage wonderkid, but those efforts now appear to have stalled. The young midfielder is close to extending his stay in North London, dealing a blow to BVB’s youthful recruitment plans.
Still, with Chukwuemeka and Buonanotte high on their shortlist,Borussia Dortmund remain committed to building a dynamic, future-proof squad. Their strategy continues to center on identifying undervalued or underused players and providing them the platform to thrive—something that has paid dividends in the past decade.
What Happens Next?

Brighton & Hove Albion v Crystal Palace – Premier League
For now, the ball is in Chelsea’s court. The Premier League club is weighing whether to accept a loan deal for Chukwuemeka, potentially with an obligation to buy. If they dig in on the full asking price, it could open the door for RB Leipzig, who are also monitoring the situation closely.
Meanwhile, negotiations with Brighton over Buonanotte are expected to accelerate in the coming days. Dortmund will be hoping to land at least one of their top targets before the start of the Bundesliga season, giving Kovac time to integrate the new signings.
Final Thoughts: Smart Recruitment or Risky Gamble?
For Dortmund, this summer is about refinement rather than a full-scale overhaul. Having reached the Champions League semi-finals and pushed domestically, the club now seeks incremental improvements. Chukwuemeka and Buonanotte may not be household names yet, but they fit the Dortmund model—young, hungry, and brimming with potential.
Whether these deals materialize depends on both negotiation skills and patience. But one thing is clear: Borussia Dortmund aren’t standing still. They’re investing in the future, once again.
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