Chelsea have reached an agreement to send teenage striker Marc Guiu on loan to Sunderland for the 2025–26 Premier League season, according to transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano.
The move, which comes without a buy option, will see the newly promoted Black Cats cover Guiu’s wages fully as they bolster their squad ahead of their top-flight return.
🚨⚪️🔴 EXCLUSIVE: Sunderland agree deal to sign Marc Guiu on loan from Chelsea, here we go!
Deal in place for straight loan, no buy option clause as Guiu remains part of Chelsea long term plans.
Salary covered by #SAFC as he’ll be an important striker for Le Bris plans. pic.twitter.com/iYRvBngzdl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 31, 2025
Guiu, 19, joined Chelsea last summer from Barcelona after the club triggered his €6 million release clause. Despite limited Premier League minutes, he impressed in the UEFA Europa Conference League, scoring six goals in nine appearances, including a standout hat-trick against Shamrock Rovers.
His physical presence and poacher’s instincts have drawn comparisons to former greats, and he remains highly regarded by Chelsea’s technical team.
The decision to loan Guiu comes amid Chelsea’s ongoing revamp of their forward options. With João Félix having departed to Al Nassr, and question marks lingering over Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku, Guiu’s exit temporarily reduces squad congestion while providing him with crucial first-team exposure in a competitive environment.
However, the move also ties into Chelsea’s wider attacking plans this summer, with the club currently engaged in advanced talks to sign Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig. Simons is expected to arrive at Stamford Bridge alongside defender Jorrel Hato, who has already agreed terms as competition for Marc Cucurella.
As reported earlier, the club have no concerns about Garnacho’s attitude and are preparing to pursue a move regardless of whether Simons arrives.
Garnacho, currently out of favour under new United boss Ruben Amorim, is believed to be available for transfer, and Chelsea are seen as strong contenders for his signature.
Guiu’s departure on loan provides an indication that at least one attacking reinforcement is likely inbound, especially if either Jackson or Nkunku depart.
Newcastle and Juventus are both monitoring Jackson’s situation, while Nkunku’s injury history and inconsistency has made his long-term role uncertain.
