Austria moves ahead of Nigeria, England for Chelsea's Chukwuemeka

Austria have approached Chelsea's Carney Chukwuemeka to convince him to pledge his allegiance to their national team according to reports.

The 19-year-old who was born in Eisenstadt, Austria to Nigerian parents before moving to England is eligible to represent England, Nigeria, and Austria.

Chukwuemeka joined Chelsea last summer from Aston Villa for a fee believed to be around the region of £20m.

The highly-rated midfielder is yet to find the back of the net for the Blues after making 12 appearances.

He has however featured six times for England's U-20 side since making his debut for the side tutored by Ian Foster.

Former Manchester United interim boss, Ralf Rangnick who is now in charge of the Austrian national team is reportedly the brains behind the move to steal the talented youngster ahead of Nigeria and England.

Nigeria had previously shown interest in the Chukwuemeka who has featured for England's U-17, U-18 and U-19 levels.

WDN