Chelsea have once again failed in their attempt to sign Nigerian-born right-back Wesley Okoduwa from Wolverhampton Wanderers, NaijNaira can report.
The deal, first reported by Chelsea Youth, broke down at the final stage for the second summer in a row, despite months of interest from the West London club.
Okoduwa, whose father Emmanuel Okoduwa played for Nigeria at the 2003 All-Africa Games, has signed his first professional contract with Wolves, putting an end to transfer speculation.
Chelsea had closely tracked the England U17 defender after being impressed by his performances through Wolves’ academy, where he has developed since the age of nine.
He was viewed by Chelsea’s recruitment team as a long-term investment, expected to rise into a senior squad role in the coming years.
Last summer, Wolves secured Okoduwa on a scholarship deal before the 2024–2025 season began, resisting Chelsea’s push.
A club source told Chelsea Youth: “They really believed the deal would happen this time. Everything looked in place until it collapsed late.”
Okoduwa has been named in six Premier League matchday squads but has yet to make his senior debut.
His decision to remain at Molineux signals Wolves’ intent to hold on to top academy talent.
Article updated 3 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
