In an apparent transfer blow for Rangers, an exciting Ibrox-linked striker has been snapped up by Aston Villa [Ntfc.co.uk].
The Gers were first credited with interest in the Northampton Town starlet in June by the Daily Mail and then again by the same outlet last month, when Aston Villa reportedly had a bid rejected [Daily Mail].
The Sunday Mirror then provided an update at the weekend on the 19-year-old, who they described as the most wanted teenager in EFL League Two.
The report asserted that Rangers were showing keen interest in Chukwuemeka but were in a three-way battle to land him with Premier League clubs Villa and Tottenham.
However, the transfer race has now officially been won by the Villains.
Chukwuemeka has left the Cobblers and joined the Birmingham club in a deal that the Northampton Chronicle and Echo reports will eventually be worth over £1m.
It’s suggested that the initial fee is around £300,000 but ‘a host of clauses and add-ons will eventually take the total package beyond the £1m mark.’
“We wish Caleb all the best and given the path he wants to pursue, this deal is very much in the best interests of the club,” said Town manager Jon Brady [Ntfc.co.uk].
The move sees Chukwuemeka join up with his brother Carney, who is also on a professional deal at Villa Park.
Possible Rangers transfer blow?
Rangers have been linked with Chukwuemeka on and off throughout the window and it’s entirely possible that he’s a player the club were genuinely interested in.
He played 28 times in all competitions last season and only netted two goals but has blistering pace and a lot of potential.
Villa were always favourites given that his brother was already at the Premier League outfit, though, and Rangers have plenty of options at the top end of the pitch right now.
Alfredo Morelos, Kemar Roofe, Cedric Itten, Fashion Sakala and Jermain Defoe are all at Steven Gerrard’s disposal, while a number of exciting youngsters are currently shining in the Academy.