Chelsea re-sign Ishe Samuels-Smith just five weeks after selling academy star to sister club Strasbourg

Bromley v Chelsea U21 - Bristol Street Motors Trophy

Chelsea have brought back academy product Ishe Samuels-Smith from sister club Strasbourg only 33 days after selling him to the French side, with the defender immediately loaned out to Swansea City.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Samuels-Smith left Stamford Bridge at the end of July, joining Strasbourg in a permanent deal under the shared BlueCo ownership structure. However, just over a month later, the teenager has returned to Chelsea and was officially loaned out to Swansea City on September 2. The left-back was on the bench for one Ligue 1 match during his short stint in France but did not make a senior appearance. Swansea announced his arrival on loan shortly after the transfer deadline.

Millwall v Chelsea - FA Youth Cup Quarter Final

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The 19-year-old’s sudden return is understood to have been influenced by Strasbourg defender Ismael Doukoure signing a new long-term deal, which reduced the French side’s need for cover in Samuels-Smith’s position. Chelsea view a Championship loan as a better development pathway, following the model that saw current captain Reece James excel at Wigan in 2018-19. Samuels-Smith originally joined Chelsea from Everton in 2023 for £4m and signed a contract until 2031 earlier this year. He had captained the club’s Under-21s but is still awaiting his senior debut.

WHAT STRASBOURG SAID

The French side released a statement after the exit of the youngster, which read: "Racing announces the departure of Ishe Samuels-Smith, who returns to Chelsea. The entire Racing team thanks Ishe for his commitment during his time at the club and wishes him every success for the rest of his career."

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WHAT NEXT FOR SAMUELS-SMITH?