Carney Chukwuemeka, a former Chelsea player and youth international for England, is believed to be in discussions to change his international allegiance to Austria as the World Cup approaches.
At the age of 22, Chukwuemeka made a move to Borussia Dortmund last summer for a fee of £24million after an apparent struggle for consistent playing time at Chelsea, where he spent three years.
He originally joined Chelsea from Aston Villa for £20million when he was just 18, recognized as one of the premier young talents in the country at that moment.
His transfer to Chelsea followed his impressive performance during England's victory in the Under 19 European Championship in 2022, which subsequently led him to represent the England Under 20 squad.
In 2024, he was also named in the England Under 21 team but could not make an appearance due to injury.
As reported by The Athletic, the 22-year-old, who scored two goals in 32 appearances for Chelsea, could soon don the Austrian national colors.
The Austrian Football Association is reportedly making arrangements to secure Chukwuemeka's switch of allegiance before next summer’s tournament.
Despite his previous involvement with England's youth teams, he has yet to compete at the senior level, allowing for a nationality switch in accordance with FIFA regulations.
Chukwuemeka was born in Eisenstadt, Austria in 2003 to Nigerian parents, which qualifies him to represent both nations. Additionally, he is also eligible to play for France.
During his early childhood, he lived in Austria until his family relocated to Northampton.
Upon moving to England, Chukwuemeka renounced his Austrian citizenship as he sought British nationality.
However, since this decision was made while he was still a minor, he now has the possibility of having his Austrian citizenship reinstated.
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