Premier League club Southampton are reportedly eyeing a summer move for Chelsea attacker Callum Hudson-Odoi.
According to reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea attacker Callum Hudson-Odoi could be nearing a summer exit from Stamford Bridge in search of regular game time. Premier League club Southampton have emerged as potential suitors and are eyeing a loan move.
Callum Hudson-Odoi is a Chelsea youth product but has failed to cement a starting spot in the team. Last season, he made just 15 appearances for the club in the Premier League, scoring once and assisting two goals, although his absence was largely down to a long-term injury. He has just two years remaining on his contract with the Blues and could take a decisive step regarding his future this summer.
The 21-year-old has failed to impress in the opportunities that he has been presented and does not feature in manager Thomas Tuchel’s plans going forward. With Chelsea signing Raheem Sterling, Hudson-Odoi will fall further down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge, making it tough for him to get regular game time.
Hudson-Odoi is thus eager to find a club where he would be given regular opportunities that would help him improve his game and progress in the right direction. Still 21 years of age, the young attacker has a lot of years in store to fix the shortcomings in his game and emerge a better player in the coming years.
Excl: Callum Hudson-Odoi could now leave Chelsea for regular game time. Southampton have already asked for CHO on loan, now pushing ?? #CFC
He was also discussed with Leicester days ago – it’s up to the player.
Hudson-Odoi will make a decision on his future in the next days. pic.twitter.com/slmoqqmVw5
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 6, 2022
As per Romano, Leicester City have shown interest in the forward as well, and the two clubs discussed a possible move for the youngster recently. However, it is still not clear whether the Foxes prefer a temporary or a permanent move.
As far as Southampton are concerned, they have requested Chelsea to allow Hudson-Odoi to join them on loan for the upcoming season. The Saints started the new season with a 4-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur and are eager to add reinforcements in the ongoing transfer window to avoid relegation.
Southampton see Hudson-Odoi as an upgrade on their current options with decent Premier League experience under his belt. He would himself want to make a point and force a return into the Chelsea squad. But for now, he has been left to choose between Southampton and Leicester. Newcastle United were also said to be interested in the Chelsea youngster.
