Chelsea Academy Prodigy Makes Surprise Appearance at Strasbourg Training as Permanent Transfer Negotiations Heat Up

Chelsea may utilize their affiliated club Strasbourg as a training facility for young left-back Ishé Samuels-Smith, with reports suggesting ongoing discussions regarding a permanent transfer to France.

Samuels-Smith moved to Chelsea's youth system from Everton during summer 2023, with the Blues paying approximately £4 million ($5.4 million) for his services.

The 19-year-old has been a consistent performer in Premier League 2 following his arrival and has shown impressive development. While he hasn't featured in Chelsea's senior squad, he has been included in matchday squads on several occasions during both the 2023–24 and 2024–25 campaigns.

Having recently turned 19, Samuels-Smith has reached a crucial point where first-team experience becomes essential. However, regular playing opportunities would likely require a move away from Chelsea, which is where Strasbourg enters the picture.

According to L'Équipe, Samuels-Smith attended Strasbourg's training session as an observer on Wednesday, with Chelsea considering a permanent £5 million ($6.8 million) transfer to the French club. Negotiations are currently underway with the player's agents.

His existing Chelsea contract, which was signed in April, extends through June 2031.

The BlueCo ownership consortium purchased nearly 100% of Strasbourg during summer 2023 through a €75 million (£64.7 million, $87.8 million) investment.

The tactical and sporting partnership between both clubs is already visible, with 19-year-old defender Mamadou Sarr recently moving to Chelsea following his stint at Strasbourg. The Blues also loaned goalkeeper Ðorđe Petrović to the Ligue 1 team last summer and may now profit from his strong performances in France that have attracted potential buyers.

Goalkeeper Mike Penders along with midfielders Mathis Amougou and Kendry Páez are all expected to join Strasbourg on temporary deals this summer. Regulations prevent Chelsea from loaning more than three players to any single club.

Ângelo had a similar experience there during 2023–24, before being transferred to Al Nassr for a profit the following summer.