Chelsea FC head coach Enzo Maresca watches before the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group D Match (Photo: François/Getty Images)
Strasbourg defender Ismael Doukoure has linked his move away from the French outfit, with Chelsea keen to secure his signature.
According to a report by L’Equipe, the 22-year-old, multi-use defender is being asked to train with the reserve team as speculation about his future with the club continues. The report argues that negotiations with Chelsea have failed so far, and it is still unclear how the situation will develop.
Doukoure was linked to Arsenal a few years ago.
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Chelsea and Strasbourg are owned by Blueco, and it will be interesting to see if the two parties can finalize the agreement in the coming days. Chelsea need more defensive depth, and the 22-year-old could be a useful player for them. The opportunity to participate in the Premier League could be exciting for him.
It is a great opportunity for him at this stage of his career and he can test himself in the Premier League. He may not be a regular Chelsea starter, but he could potentially get a chance during the cup game or rotation. It will be interesting to see if he is willing to accept such a role.
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Doucole joins Chelsea?
Doukoure needs regular games at this stage of his career. It is still unknown how the situation will develop.
He is a talented player with a bright future and there is no doubt that moving into the Premier League will accelerate his development. He competed with top-class players, and Chelsea was able to develop him into a reliable performer on top flights.
Chelsea will be competing in the UEFA Champions League next season and need a deeper team so they can spin the team and keep their players fresh. Signing a talented young player like Doukoure can prove to be a wise decision.