Borussia Dortmund midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka is reportedly in advanced talks to switch his international allegiance to Austria, ruling out the possibility of representing Nigeria ahead of this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

The 22-year-old, who previously featured for England at youth level and was part of the squad that won the 2022 UEFA Under-19 European Championship, is also eligible to play for Nigeria and France.

According to reports, the Austrian Football Association is working to finalise the necessary arrangements to enable Chukwuemeka complete his nationality switch before the World Cup.

Born in Eisenstadt, Austria, Chukwuemeka spent his early childhood there before relocating to Northampton, England. Although he renounced his Austrian citizenship when he became a British citizen — a decision made while he was a minor — he is eligible to have it reinstated.

Currently at Borussia Dortmund, the former Aston Villa and Chelsea midfielder has scored three goals in 26 appearances this season. However, with stiff competition in England’s midfield — including Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, and Elliot Anderson — his pathway to senior Three Lions football appears limited.

Austria, managed by former Manchester United interim boss Ralf Rangnick, secured qualification for the World Cup ahead of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Romania. They have been drawn in a group alongside defending champions Argentina, Jordan, and Algeria.

Chukwuemeka, who made 32 appearances and scored twice during his time at Chelsea, is reportedly eager to secure regular international football as he also pursues a permanent move to Dortmund following last season’s loan spell.