Callum Hudson-Odoi is reportedly ‘considering’ a transfer from England to Ghana, with the Black Stars attempting to persuade the Chelsea winger, as well as Tariq Lamptey, to do so ahead of the World Cup.
Following Ghana’s Black Stars qualification for the world cup tournament in November, Hudson-Odoi is rumored to be ‘considering’ joining the African team.
The Chelsea winger was reported to have waved off the chance to play for England’s under-21 team in internationals against Romania and Kosovo in August 2020.
He also declined a call-up from Gareth Southgate for the fixtures against Albania and San Marino in November.
Players can change sides under FIFA rules if they have played not more than three competitive international games before the age of 21.
Hudson-Odoi would be eligible for the switch just in time for the World Cup, which will be held in Qatar from November 21 to December 18.
Ghana qualified for the World Cup by defeating Nigeria on away goals in their World Cup playoff on Tuesday.
As the World Cup approaches, the Black Stars are aiming to strengthen their squad, and Ghana FA communications director, Henry Asante Twum said that the team will target Hudson-Odoi and Tariq, both Premier League players if FIFA will allow.
Mr. Henry said “If it is that we wake up tomorrow and the new coach of the Black Stars wants Tariq [Lamptey], Hudson-Odoi, whoever is available, we will look at the regulations and the possibility of getting them. If it is within our reach, we pursue it.
“The new law for nationality switch is that you should be three years from your last game [from the association you want to switch from], so it means that if today, Hudson-Odoi played for England three years ago, we will look at the month [in which] he played, and if it is exactly two years, he has every right to switch nationality.”
Hudson-Odoi and his parents traveled to Accra earlier this year to meet with Ghana’s technical advisor and former Newcastle manager Chris Hughton to explore his international future.