Chelsea are closing in on a move for Valentin Barco, yet they may already have someone similar simmering within Cobham in the form of Landon Emenalo.
Valentin Barco has undergone a remarkable transformation at Strasbourg this season, shedding his struggling left-back tag from his Brighton days to become one of Ligue 1’s most feared playmakers.
Under the initial guidance of Liam Rosenior, Barco was converted into a technical central midfielder, a move that has paid dividends with 11 goal involvements across 38 appearances this term.
With broad terms on a six-year deal reportedly already agreed, Chelsea view Barco as a solution to their midfield creativity. His familiarity with Rosenior’s system makes him an ideal candidate, providing a seamless transition as the Blues look to solidify their spine for the 2026/27 campaign.
DEBATE: Enzo Fernandez shouldn’t be suspended for the Manchester City game
He's one of our best players!
Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Landon Emanalo is making a name for himself
Barco’s profile as a line-breaking midfielder is strikingly similar to that of Landon Emenalo, the 18-year-old son of former technical director Michael Emenalo.
Both players possess that rare versatility, capable of operating as a left-back or drifting into central pockets to dictate play.
Emenalo is enjoying a rapid rise through the Under-21s, where he has maintained an 89% passing accuracy and a high defensive recovery rate.
He’s had four assists this season from left-back in 24 appearances, as well as four from central midfield.
Hato, Joao Pedro or someone else? 🤔
Jorrel Hato prove me wrong graphic
Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images
John Terry is excited about Landon Emenalo
You know a kid is special when he’s already getting praise from Chelsea legend John Terry, and that’s exactly what has happened with Landon Emenalo.
“Landon Emenalo. His dad used to work at Chelsea. Landon is a very good footballer. I think he plays for the first team and comes through. He currently plays left-back, he’s not a left-back, he can play left centre-half, he prefers to play in midfield as a six. A big future, a really good player.”
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox