Tottenham Hotspur are in talks over a deadline-day loan move for Chelsea FC winger Mykhailo Mudryk. The potential deal, reported by ESPN Soccer this week, could also involve a permanent transfer for Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo to Spurs before Tuesday's deadline. Mudryk, a Ukrainian international, has not featured for Chelsea in a competitive match since November 2024 and has been absent from all matchday squads this season. He recently became eligible to play again following a 20-month absence after a resolution between the Football Association and the World Anti-Doping Agency concerning an adverse urine sample.
Chelsea signed Mudryk for a fee of £85 million in January 2023, but his time at Stamford Bridge has been disrupted. The 25-year-old's availability comes as Chelsea sit 3rd in the Premier League with six points from two wins in their opening games. They have scored seven goals but conceded five, giving them a +2 goal difference ahead of their next fixture, a trip to face 9th-placed Arsenal on September 6th. The squad is also managing injuries, with Jordan Henderson, Enzo Fernández, and Marco Palestra currently sidelined, as listed on our injuries page.
What does the proposed deal involve?
The negotiation centers on a loan arrangement for Mykhailo Mudryk. Sources indicate that Tottenham's pursuit of defender Tosin Adarabioyo would need to be a permanent signing if both moves are to be completed. This creates a complex package deal for the clubs to resolve before the transfer window closes. Chelsea's current form, detailed on our standings page, shows a strong start to the campaign, which may influence decisions on squad depth. The potential departure of two players would require assessment against the existing injury list.
Why is Mudryk available now?
Mykhailo Mudryk's return to availability follows a lengthy period out of the game. He was sidelined for 20 months after an adverse finding in a urine sample. The situation was resolved between the FA and WADA, clearing him to resume his career. Despite being free to play, he has not been selected by Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca for any matchday squads in the early part of the season. This lack of involvement has opened the door for a move away, with Tottenham seeking to bolster their attacking options.
How does this affect Chelsea's squad planning?
Losing two players, even if one is on loan, impacts squad composition. Mudryk's potential exit follows a significant investment, and his absence would be felt in the wide attacking positions. The possible sale of Tosin Adarabioyo would further trim defensive options. These decisions come as Chelsea prepare for a demanding schedule, including the upcoming away match against Arsenal. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming challenges on our fixtures page. Manager Enzo Maresca will need to balance the books and the roster as the deadline passes.
The proposed moves underscore the frantic nature of deadline day. Tottenham, according to a quote from ESPN's James Olley, "Spent £380m this summer, but De Zerbi & Co. can't buy mentality." Chelsea's focus now shifts to maintaining their early-season momentum, with their next Premier League fixture set for September 6th at the Emirates Stadium.
