Chelsea wonderkid set for loan transfer and new contract under Xabi Alonso

The latest Chelsea-related transfer news as highly-rated academy striker Shim Mheuka closes in on a new contract at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea youngster Shim Mheuka is in line to sign a new long-term contract at Stamford Bridge before heading out on loan for the 2026/27 season, football.london understands.

The 18-year-old forward has less than 12 months – with the option of a further year – left to run on his existing deal, but sources say the striker is close to reaching an agreement with the Blues. Once Mheuka puts pen to paper on new terms at Cobham, the highly-rated academy forward is likely to move on loan for the upcoming campaign.

There are numerous clubs from Europe’s top five leagues, as well as the EFL, with a keen interest in taking Mheuka on loan. Chelsea are likely to announce Mheuka’s new contract at the same time as confirming his loan move – just like they did recently with Jesse Derry.

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Derry recently completed a season-long loan move to Sporting CP but committed his future to Chelsea by signing a new long-term contract at the same time.

A breakthrough in negotiations over Mheuka’s new deal has been very recent, with football.london bringing you the news earlier on Friday that talks between the two parties were ongoing. Mheuka enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 season where the teenage striker scored 17 goals in as many Premier League 2 appearances. The Cobham star also made four appearances for the first team over the course of the campaign.

Unsurprisingly, Mheuka was named Premier League 2 Player of the Season for his efforts. Speaking to the club’s media team after winning the award, he said : “I’d say its been a solid season for me. One of my main aims going into the campaign was to be consistent and perform week in, week out.

“I feel like I’ve had good performances throughout the year and scoring goals obviously helps. I managed 18 goals in the Premier League 2, which is something I’m proud of. At the same time, as a striker, you always feel like there’s more you can do.

“You always set targets at the beginning of the season, especially as a forward. You want to score goals, help the team and contribute as much as possible.

“But I try not to overthink it too much during games. It’s about trusting myself, trusting my teammates and focusing on the next match, rather than looking too far ahead.”