Chelsea transfer news: Marc Guiu returns from Sunderland loan, described as "unusual situation"

Sunderland have confirmed that Chelsea have requested to recall Marc Guiu from his loan stint at the Stadium of Light.

Earlier in the summer transfer window, the Blues gave the green light to the former Barcelona prospect spending the season in the North East.

Chelsea wanted the Spaniard to gain regular Premier League football before returning to Stamford Bridge to fight for a place in Enzo Maresca's squad.

However, on Saturday afternoon, Liam Delap suffered a hamstring injury against Fulham, leading to Chelsea attempting to scrap Nicolas Jackson's loan move to Bayern Munich.

Once it became apparent that the Senegal international would prefer to sign for the Bundesliga champions over the following 24 hours, Chelsea instead pulled the trigger on negotiations with Sunderland.

Sunderland react to Guiu Chelsea return

While there was no recall clause in their agreement, Chelsea pushed for the 19-year-old to return prior to the 7pm deadline on Monday.

Sunderland have now acknowledged that they had accepted Chelsea's request, claiming that the 'best outcome' has been achieved.

Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman told the club's official website: "This has been an unusual situation to navigate, and our priority must always be to act in the best interests of Sunderland AFC.

"Following discussions with Chelsea, Marc, and his representatives throughout the last 48 hours, we believe we have achieved this outcome and that this decision is in the best interests of all parties.

"We wish Marc well upon returning to Chelsea, who we continue to enjoy a strong relationship with, and we now move forward.”

Guiu leaves Sunderland having made two substitute appearances in the Premier League, as well as scoring a goal and completing 90 minutes in an EFL Cup tie with Huddersfield Town.

What are the ramifications of Guiu return?

As per FIFA regulations, players are not allowed to represent more than three clubs in a single season.

Therefore, should, as expected, Guiu be handed minutes by Maresca, he can only represent the West Londoners or Sunderland throughout the remainder of 2025-26.

With Sunderland attempting to sign Bertrand Traore from Ajax, they should have their replacement and may not be interested in re-signing Guiu in January.

From Chelsea's side, Guiu will be unable to play in any EFL Cup fixtures this season.