Mykhailo Mudryk is expected to return to football next season after completing his suspension for breaching anti-doping regulations, but Chelsea are not currently planning for the Ukraine international to play a leading role at Stamford Bridge in 2026-27.
According to Foot Mercato, Chelsea have accepted that their squad has adapted in Mudryk’s absence and are considering sending the 25-year-old out on loan. The proposed move would give him the opportunity to rebuild his fitness and regain regular playing time after a difficult period away from the game.
Several clubs have already shown interest in signing Mudryk temporarily. Strasbourg are among those understood to be keen, with the French club sharing the same ownership group as Chelsea.
Chelsea had been linked with the possibility of loaning Mudryk to another Premier League side. That option would have allowed him to return to the pace and physical demands of English football, but the club are now believed to be leaning towards a move to Strasbourg instead.
A loan to the Ligue 1 club would give Strasbourg an experienced and talented attacking option, while offering Mudryk a route back into competitive football. Chelsea’s preference reflects their belief that the player would benefit from consistent minutes as he attempts to restart his career following his suspension.
Mudryk joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023. He has made 73 appearances for the club, scoring 11 goals and providing 10 assists.
His future at Chelsea has become uncertain as the club assesses how best to reintegrate him into football. Although he is due to be available again next season, the possibility of a temporary departure would allow him to play regularly rather than remain on the margins of the first-team picture at Stamford Bridge.
The potential move to Strasbourg would also keep Mudryk within the same wider ownership structure as Chelsea. That relationship could make the French club a practical destination as the winger works towards recovering his form and establishing a regular role once more.
Chelsea are therefore preparing for the possibility of continuing without Mudryk in a prominent position during the 2026-27 season. Strasbourg’s interest may provide the Ukrainian with the clearest opportunity to return to regular action in the coming weeks, as he looks to rebuild a career that has been interrupted by his lengthy absence from the sport.
