Barco announces Strasbourg exit amid Chelsea interest

Barco announces Strasbourg exit amid Chelsea interestImage source, Getty ImagesByNizaar KinsellaChelsea reporterPublished19 May 2026Strasbourg midfielder Valentin Barco has announced his departure amid reported Chelsea interest.Sources close to the Argentina international, 21, believe he is heading to Stamford Bridge, although Chelsea have yet to confirm any deal.Barco, who excelled in Ligue 1 after joining from Brighton for £7.9m in January 2025, is expected to sign a six-year contract ahead of the 2026-27 season.He would become the second player to join Chelsea this summer, with striker Emanuel Emegha having already agreed a move within the multi-club model, as both clubs are owned by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital.It would be the 13th deal between the two BlueCo clubs since the start of last season, with Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders also under consideration to return to Stamford Bridge following a successful loan spell.Chelsea, who have announced Xabi Alonso will become their permanent manager on 1 July, have also pre-agreed moves for Sporting winger Geovany Quenda, who will join for £40m, and Kairat striker Dastan Satpaev.In a statement on social media, Barco said: "Today I say goodbye to this club. I always gave everything on the pitch in every game for this shirt."I want to thank my team-mates, who made everything easier for me; Liam Rosenior and his staff for the confidence they showed in me and for helping shape me as a player; Gary O'Neil and his staff for understanding me and helping me improve; everyone at the club who supports us every day; and the fans for the love they always gave me. Thank you, Strasbourg."Related topicsFootballChelseaFootball Transfers