Chelsea owners BlueCo agree to sign Julio Enciso from Brighton but will winger move to Stamford Bridge or sister club Strasbourg?

David Ornstein reports that the Paraguayan has chosen to join the group, without knowing which club he will immediately join. Personal terms have been struck with the consortium. It is expected that Enciso will initially join the French side but he is viewed as a long-term prospect for Chelsea's first team. 

The 21-year-old's career on the south coast has been disrupted by injury and managerial changes. He was not part of Fabian Hurzeler's plans for the upcoming season, as he spent the second half of last season on loan with Ipswich Town. He scored two goals and made three assists in 13 appearances for The Tractor Boys, as they were immediately relegated back to the Championship. Enciso is currently sidelined with a knee injury, that required surgery. 

This is the latest in a string of deals struck between BlueCo and Brighton since the ownership group took control of Chelsea in 2022. With notable signings including Marc Cucurella, Moises Caicedo, Robert Sanchez and the acquisition of Joao Pedro and Enciso this summer, they have spent more than £250 million ($336m) on ex-Seagulls in the past three years. 

The young Paraguayan has been short on gametime over the past season. Given Chelsea's glut of attacking options, a move to France is probably the correct decision for his development.