Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Business between Chelsea and Strasbourg has been a regular theme since the French side came under BlueCo’s ownership, and they are now set to complete a permanent signing from Stamford Bridge.
The Ligue 1 side have already brought in Filip Jorgensen on loan, after consecutive seasons Of Djordje Petrovic and Mike Penders between the sticks.
Andrey Santos made a real impact during his temporary stint there, while they have benefitted from the permanent signings of Mathis Amougou and Diego Moreira.
Enzo Fernandez and Enzo Maresca hugging graphic
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After the expected departure of Julio Enciso, Strasbourg need a new attacking midfielder, and seem to have landed on Chelsea youngster Omari Kellyman.
As per Wales Online, the French side are closing in on a permanent deal, after Cardiff had considered themselves the favourites following his loan spell there last season.
Chelsea FC v Tottenham: Sydney Super Cup
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Originally, it had been believed that Chelsea were looking to loan out Kellyman this summer, with him yet to even make an appearance for the first team squad.
His transfer fee of £19m when he joined from Aston Villa continues to look a questionable use of money, even if it did come with the departure of Ian Maatsen the other way.
Injuries have certainly not helped the youngster’s development, with him spending a significant amount of the last three years on the sidelines.
Chelsea's pre-season results
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
The writing was on the wall perhaps for Kellyman when he made his first appearance of pre-season against Western Sydney Wanderers.
Xabi Alonso brought him on as a substitute, however took him off again within 20 minutes as the Blues looked to avoid an embarrassing defeat.
There are plenty of players in Kellyman’s position ahead of him in the first team squad, including new signing Morgan Rogers, who is expected to be crucial under Alonso.
Kellyman showed encouraging signs during his loan spell at Cardiff when he remained fit, and a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge could be exactly what he needs to get his career back on track.