Ike Ugbo’s big dream is to play for Chelsea at Stamford Bridge after the London-born player came up through the ranks of the English club’s youth system.
The 22-year-old is yet to represent the Blues first team and has been out on loan since the start of the 2017/18 season.
Earlier in August, the forward signed a new contract with Frank Lampard’s side and then joined Cercle Brugge on a season-long loan deal. The Belgian side confirmed they have a ‘purchase option’ to make his loan stay permanent.
After spending the last season on loan at Dutch side Roda JC, the attacker admitted he’s enjoying life in Belgium. He also stressed Cercle Brugge having Paul Clement as their manager influenced his decision to join them on loan.
“I am getting better adapted to Belgian football. There is football here harder and faster than in the Netherlands, but I feel that I am developing better and better at Cercle. I’ve also gained strength, yes,” Ugbo said, as reported by Het Laatste Nieuws.
“After every game there is contact with people from Chelsea, who let me know how they thought my performance. It is also very important for me to know that Paul Clement believes in me. His presence at Cercle was one of the main reasons why I chose to [come on] loan to this club.”
Ugbo has been shining in the Jupiler Pro League and has seven goals in 10 appearances this season. The striker, who enjoys going out on loan, has a long-term vision and that’s to succeed at Chelsea.
“I love those loans for one season, always end up in a new environment and you have to prove yourself,” he explained.
“But my ultimate ambition remains to get my full chance at Chelsea and to be able to play football at Stamford Bridge. I’ve been there since I was nine and have always dreamed of breaking through [at Chelsea].”
