LAGOS, Nigeria — Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle could soon have a top-tier midfield option at his disposal as former Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has begun the process of switching his international allegiance from France to Nigeria.

Born in Rennes, France, to parents of Nigerian descent, the 22-year-old midfielder has represented France across various youth levels, including the Under-19 and Under-21 squads. However, because he has yet to make a senior competitive appearance for the French national team, FIFA regulations permit him to initiate a formal switch to represent Nigeria.

Ugochukwu, who came through the Rennes youth academy before signing with Chelsea in 2023, is widely regarded as a dynamic box-to-box midfielder known for his physical presence, tactical awareness, and ball-winning ability.

Reports indicate that contact between the player's camp and officials from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has progressed positively, with the necessary documentation being compiled to file for FIFA approval.

Should the administrative process go smoothly, Ugochukwu will join the growing list of European-born dual-nationality players—including Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, and William Troost-Ekong—who have opted to represent the three-time African champions on the international stage.

Coach Eric Chelle has been actively evaluating midfield combinations to add depth and defensive resilience to the squad ahead of upcoming international windows and competitive fixtures.

Ugochukwu's potential inclusion would provide immediate competition in central midfield alongside Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika.