Earlier this week, Chelsea successfully secured a deal to sign Sporting CP’s highly-rated teenager, Geovany Quenda. The 17-year-old forward is considered one of the most exciting talents to emerge from Portugal in recent years. Initially, Manchester United was expected to sign Quenda and reunite him with manager Ruben Amorim, but Chelsea ultimately outmaneuvered their rivals.
Quenda has agreed to a seven-year contract with an option for an eighth season. A crucial factor in Chelsea’s successful negotiations was their willingness to allow Quenda to remain at Sporting CP for the 2025/26 season. This arrangement means that he will officially arrive at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2026.
Chelsea Sign Dario Essugo from Sporting CP
While Quenda’s arrival is still a couple of years away, Chelsea have also completed a deal for his Sporting CP teammate, Dario Essugo, who will be joining the club this summer.
According to CNN Portugal, Chelsea have agreed to sign the 20-year-old central midfielder, currently on loan at La Liga side Las Palmas. Romano confirmed the move on social media platform X, stating:
“Dario Essugo to Chelsea, here we go! Agreement done with Sporting and medical completed. R403.86m transfer fee for 20-year-old midfielder to join Chelsea THIS summer and be part of the first team. Essugo will sign a seven-year deal.”
Essugo to Provide Depth in Midfield
Chelsea’s central midfield is already well-stocked with stars such as Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, and Enzo Fernandez. However, Essugo—who excels in defensive duties similar to Caicedo—will provide valuable depth and competition within the squad. Romano reported that Essugo has been signed to “provide cover” for the Ecuadorian midfielder.
Financial Breakdown of Chelsea’s Double Coup
Initial reports suggested that Chelsea’s deal for Quenda was worth R936.22m, but Romano has since clarified that the final fee was actually R881.15m. Combined with the R403.86m paid for Essugo, Chelsea have committed a total of R1,285.01m (R1,083.08m) in transfer fees for the two Portuguese prospects.
With Chelsea focusing on securing young talent for the future, these acquisitions could prove to be vital pieces in the club’s long-term project under manager Mauricio Pochettino.
