Ismael Doukoure heading to Chelsea? Graeme Bailey said: Part of the new deal, he was handed a significant pay rise, but he also signed knowing a pathway is in place for him to follow Strasbourg team-mate Emanuel Emegha to Stamford Bridge in 2026. We can confirm that Newcastle did make an approach, but so did Brighton, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, West Ham, and others in Europe and Saudi Arabia.
Chelsea have announced a pre-agreement to sign Emanuel Emegha from partner club Strasbourg in 2026. Emegha, who is the Ligue 1 side's captain, was reportedly of interest to a number of Premier League clubs, but has opted to join the Blues next year. It is reported that the 22-year-old will put pen to paper on a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge, following an impressive season in 2024-25.
Transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano says Julio Enciso is set for a medical today ahead of a transfer to Chelsea owners BlueCo. It is expected that the Brighton midfielder will initially join Strasbourg, who are also under the same ownership as Chelsea. In the long run, though, it seems Enciso is viewed as a Chelsea signing, as also reported by the Athletic last night.