Fulham boss Marco Silva has moved to downplay growing speculation over a permanent move for Samuel Chukwueze, despite the on-loan AC Milan winger’s strong start in West London.
Reports in recent days suggested Fulham were edging closer to triggering a buyout clause for the Nigerian international. Chukwueze has spoken openly about how quickly he has settled, but Silva insisted on Friday that discussions about his long-term future will wait.
“A permanent deal? It’s not the moment to speak about that,” Silva said, as relayed by British reporter Jack Kelly following his pre-match press conference. “There’s plenty of time to make that decision. We’re calm, and so is he. He knows what he has to keep doing — helping the team. When the time is right, we’ll decide.”
The Portuguese manager nonetheless highlighted the qualities the 24-year-old has brought since arriving from Milan.
“He’s mature, he’s creative, and he has real quality,” Silva added. “We want to see even more from him, but he doesn’t need to prove himself every single match. He’s an international, he’s played for a big European club, he understands pressure. Beyond the football, he brings great energy to the group. He’s a good lad, always smiling, and when it’s time to work, he works.”
Chukwueze, who scored twice in Fulham’s dramatic 5–4 defeat to Manchester City, echoed that positivity when speaking to the club’s media channels. He pointed to his connection with supporters and the confidence Silva has given him.
“The fans are unbelievable — I adore them,” he said. “They love me, but I think I love them more. Even at 5–1 down they kept believing, singing, pushing us. They deserved better. They deserve wins, because they’re fantastic.”
The winger also praised Silva’s influence:
“What matters most is the coach pushing me. Whether I play 10, 20 or 30 minutes, I have to give everything for the team.”
Even though the Super Eagle has restored confidence to Fulham’s attack, the club is waiting until the end of the season to fully assess his performances and adaptation before committing to a permanent transfer.
Still under contract with the Rossoneri until 2028, Chukwueze is currently valued at €10 million, according to Transfermarkt.
