Transfer News: Chelsea’s #25bn signing to return to France after five months in the Premier League

Chelsea have agreed to sell midfielder Mathis Amougou to sister club Strasbourg in a permanent deal, just five months after his £12.5 million transfer from Saint-Etienne.

The Athletic’s report states that although initially planned as a season-long loan for 2025-26, the 19-year-old expressed a desire to return to France, prompting the permanent switch. 

Amougou, who signed an eight-year deal at Stamford Bridge, is expected to sign a five-year contract with the Ligue 1 outfit.

During his brief time at Chelsea, the France youth international made only two substitute appearances, totalling 22 minutes. 

The teenager made a late cameo against Southampton in the Premier League on February 26 and featured against Legia in the Conference League.

He had established himself at Saint-Etienne before his move to England. 

The report suggests that Amougou might soon be joined at Strasbourg by Chelsea Under-21 defender Ishe Samuels-Smith, with a potential £8 million transfer under discussion. 

Other Chelsea prospects, including Kendry Paez and Mike Penders, are also being considered for loan moves to Strasbourg. 

Chelsea will face Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s Club World Cup final, aiming to cap off an encouraging season with a second title after the Conference League.