Transfer news – Strasbourg: Is Barco (also) heading to Chelsea?

Valentin Barco could also be set to join Chelsea this summer. Argentine sources report that the midfielder’s move to the Blues is already all but done.

This news is unlikely to ease tensions between some Strasbourg supporters and the club’s management. Highly critical of Strasbourg’s policy since the takeover by BlueCo, many fans are likely to view the potential departure of Valentin Barco (21) to Chelsea at the end of the season very unfavourably.

According to several Argentine sources, the link between Racing and the London club – both owned by BlueCo – will be activated once again this summer. Journalist Gaston Edul even suggests that a contractual agreement has already been reached between the midfielder and Chelsea, as well as a mutual understanding between the two clubs regarding a future transfer.

Chelsea poaches from Strasbourg

This move will come as no surprise to many. In recent months, there has been a flurry of activity between Alsace and London. Dutch striker Emanuel Emegha is also set to join the Blues next summer, a transfer that was made official back in September and had already sparked anger among the fans. Manager Liam Rosenior left Strasbourg mid-season to take charge at Chelsea following Enzo Maresca’s departure, whilst defender Mamadou Sarr saw his loan cut short this winter to return to England. Barco is therefore likely to be next, confirming the impression that RCSA is serving as a feeder club for Chelsea.

Having arrived from Brighton in February 2025, initially on loan before a permanent transfer estimated at €10 million, Barco has since established himself as one of Ligue 1’s best midfielders. The Argentine, who can also play at left-back, stands out for his reading of the game and his work rate on the pitch. Qualities he could showcase to the world next summer. Having scored on his second cap for Argentina on Wednesday against Zambia (5-0), the South American could indeed feature in the upcoming World Cup with the Albiceleste.