Chelsea are reportedly on the verge of completing the signing of Sporting CP midfielder Dario Essugo, according to multiple reports.
The 19-year-old has impressed while on loan at La Liga’s Las Palmas this season, drawing attention from several top clubs.
Chelsea were first linked to Essugo late in the transfer window, as they began pursuing a midfielder.
Portuguese outlet O Jogo claimed Chelsea had agreed a deal for Essugo just hours before the deadline, but no official announcement followed.
Instead, the Blues confirmed the signing of another 19-year-old, Mathis Amougou, from Saint-Étienne for €15m (£12.5m).
Despite the lack of immediate confirmation, A BOLA later reported that Chelsea had indeed completed a deal for Essugo, stressing that while the move will not be finalised until the summer, the club had already paid €25m (£20.9m) to secure his transfer at the end of the season.
Spanish outlet Relevo further confirmed Chelsea’s ongoing interest in the midfielder, noting that the club is in direct contact regarding his transfer.
Essugo has also been linked with other clubs, including West Ham United and Borussia Dortmund.
Chelsea’s plans for Amougou are believed to involve a loan move to Strasbourg next season, potentially freeing up space for Essugo to join the first team.
Additionally, Brazil international Andrey Santos, who has impressed on loan at Strasbourg, is expected to play a key role under manager Enzo Maresca next year.
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