Julio Enciso Set for Medical Ahead of BlueCo Move, Will Join Strasbourg Before Chelsea

Brighton attacker Julio Enciso is traveling to London for medical tests ahead of his move to the BlueCo group. Enciso will join Strasbourg for the upcoming Ligue 1 season before moving to Chelsea on a contract until 2031.

WHAT HAPPENED

Julio Enciso, one of Paraguay’s most promising forwards, is about to leave Brighton. The BlueCo group, owners of Chelsea and Strasbourg, have agreed to pay €20 million to sign the 21-year-old. Enciso will have medical tests in London before officially joining BlueCo. He will not join Chelsea immediately but will spend the 2025-26 season at Strasbourg in France’s Ligue 1. He will sign a long-term contract at Chelsea until June 2031, with an option to extend for one more year. This structured transfer plan shows BlueCo’s commitment to developing prospects across its club network.

WHY CHELSEA AND STRASBOURG WANT ENCISO

Enciso showed flashes of brilliance last season with Brighton, even though he only played in 18 matches due to injuries. He scored three goals and registered two assists in 905 minutes for the Seagulls. Chelsea and Strasbourg see Enciso as a versatile attacker who can play as a winger or a central forward. He would be a good fit for the teams’ dynamic styles. Strasbourg finished 7th in Ligue 1 last year, aiming to improve on their performance and reach the Conference League group stage [source]. Chelsea finished their Premier League season in fourth place, securing a place in the Champions League. Playing in France first will give Enciso regular game time in one of the top five European leagues, helping him prepare for future challenges in England.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR ENCISO AND HIS NEW TEAMS

Enciso’s move will be completed once he passes his medical tests. He will join Strasbourg for the 2025-26 Ligue 1 campaign, where he is expected to play an important role as they aim for a higher finish [source]. Chelsea are changing their squad and focusing on young talents who could bring them resale value or join their first team. Strasbourg will have their 2nd match of the season against Nantes, having won their opener away at Metz, making for an evenly-matched contest. Chelsea kicked off their Premier League season at home against Crystal palace, being held to a 2-2 draw, and will now be visiting West Ham United, looking for the 1st win of the season, with both teams aiming for a strong start. Chelsea will carefully monitor Enciso’s progress at Strasbourg and hope he will be ready to join their Premier League squad in 2026.