Transfer window closed, but Chelsea keep announcing new signings

The transfer window in England, and most European countries, closed over a week ago, yet Chelsea continues to announce new signings.

This Friday, the English club confirmed the acquisition of Emanuel Emegha from Strasbourg, a team also owned by a group led by Todd Boehly.

The two clubs have conducted several deals this season, primarily with Chelsea loaning players to Strasbourg.

Notable examples include Mike Penders, Kendry Paéz, and Mamadou Sarr. Ben Chillwell moved on a free transfer, while Ishé Samuels-Smith cost the French side €7.5 million, and Mathis Amougou €14.5 million.

The 22-year-old striker, who captains the world's youngest team, has signed a seven-year contract, tying him to the club until June 2033.

However, the Dutchman will only join the Blues in the summer of 2026 – a similar arrangement to Geovany Quenda's move to Sporting – and will complete the current season in France, participating in European competitions.

Details of the transfer remain undisclosed, but Strasbourg acquired Emegha for €13 million two years ago from Austrian club Sturm Graz.

In the 2024/25 season, the young forward scored 14 goals and provided 3 assists in 29 appearances.

This season, he has already netted three goals in four matches, including in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers.

Given Liam Delap's complicated injury, which led to the cancellation of Marc Guiu's loan to Sunderland to compete with João Pedro, Enzo Maresca might have been tempted to bring the forward in during the last transfer window.

However, the club's decision was to allow him to continue his development in France and arrive better prepared for the next season.