Chelsea set to complete sixth summer deal with decision made over surprise transfer

Ishé Samuels-Smith wants to join Strasbourg on a permanent deal, football.london understands.

The 19-year-old is highly rated at the Chelsea academy - and that was made clear when the club handed the versatile defender a long-term contract extension back in April. However, the Blues are willing to sell if the price is right, and with Strasbourg, also owned by BlueCo, it looks to be a deal that will suit all parties.

Samuels-Smith's entourage have been in eastern France for the past 10 days while the player himself is back with family in Manchester. The teenager will fly to Strasbourg should personal terms be agreed between the two parties.

The terms were presented to Samuels-Smith’s representatives on Friday and a day of talks followed to try and find the best possible outcome. Nothing has been agreed just yet, football.london understands, and negotiations will resume on Monday.

Chelsea are demanding £8million - double the amount the Blues paid Everton for his services back in 2023 - for the talented academy star. There will be no buyback clause inserted into the contract should Samuels-Smith move to the Stade de la Meinau, though given the close relationship of the clubs, the defender will very much remain on Chelsea’s radar.

Elsewhere, Chelsea are considering making a move for Jorrel Hato this summer. The 19-year-old defender can play as a left-back or a central defender and is attracting the interest of the Blues, as well as Premier League champions Liverpool.

Nothing is advanced yet with Chelsea still considering their options but Hato is a name on the club’s radar at the moment. Similar can be said about RB Leipzig attacker Xavi Simons. With Christopher Nkunku expected to depart Stamford Bridge this summer, Simons is viewed as someone who could potentially come in and replace the Frenchman. Morgan Rogers is also liked internally at Cobham, though Aston Villa are said to be demanding £80million for the 22-year-old.

Story Saved

You can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.