Chelsea have officially confirmed the signing of talented midfielder Dario Essugo from Sporting CP, in a deal reported to be worth around £18 million. The Blues had reached an agreement to bring the 20-year-old to Stamford Bridge back in March, and the move has now been finalised, making him eligible for the forthcoming Club World Cup.
Essugo, a product of Sporting’s esteemed academy, holds the distinction of being the youngest player to debut for the club’s senior team, having made his first appearance at just 16 years old in March 2021. Last season, he spent time on loan with Spanish side Las Palmas, amassing 27 appearances and scoring a goal despite the club’s unfortunate relegation from La Liga.
Chelsea’s official statement on the signing praised Essugo’s potential, highlighting his contract which extends until 2033. It noted his historic achievement as Sporting’s youngest-ever starter, surpassing the record previously held by Luis Figo. Essugo’s development saw him gain experience with both Sporting B and the first team, before moving to the Primeira Liga with Chaves for the second half of the 2023/24 season.
The club also emphasised his international experience, featuring prominently in Portugal’s youth teams, with his latest appearances for the Under-21s. Essugo himself expressed his excitement on Instagram, stating, “Happy to join the Chelsea family.”
In addition to securing Essugo, Chelsea earlier signed Geovany Quenda, another budding talent from Sporting, who is set to join the club next year. Meanwhile, the Blues are aiming to further strengthen their squad under the guidance of manager Enzo Maresca. They are on the verge of finalising a £30 million deal for Ipswich striker Liam Delap and remain hopeful of acquiring Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund before the summer window closes, with the player’s valuation at around £50 million.
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