Chelsea Re-Signs Ishe Samuels-Smith Just 33 Days After Strasbourg Move
In a twist few saw coming, Chelsea have re-secured the services of young defender Ishe Samuels-Smith only a month after sanctioning his move to sister club Strasbourg.
The 18-year-old talent, who joined the Blues from Everton last year for around £4 million, has yet to make a senior appearance at Stamford Bridge. But his name is now back in the Chelsea books after a whirlwind few weeks.
Samuels-Smith was unveiled by Strasbourg at the end of July, a move that looked set to mark the beginning of his development in Ligue 1. He even made the matchday squad twice, once in the league against Metz and again in the Conference League clash with Brøndby.
But less than five weeks on, Chelsea pulled him back. The deal was completed on deadline day, using a deal sheet — a tool which allows clubs an extra two hours to finalise transfers.
Ishe Samuels-Smith has rejoined Chelsea from Strasbourg, 33 days after signing a permanent deal with the French club.
The Athletic reported in July that Samuels-Smith, 19, was to join Strasbourg for an undisclosed fee and this was confirmed by the clubs — both of whom are owned… pic.twitter.com/8dw2qTEmAH
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) September 2, 2025
Almost immediately, Samuels-Smith was shipped out again, this time on loan to Swansea City.
Chelsea’s summer business has been a revolving door. Mamadou Sarr arrived from Strasbourg before heading back on loan. Goalkeeper Mike Penders and teenage sensation Kendry Páez also departed on temporary spells.
On the flip side, Ben Chilwell and Mathis Amougou made permanent switches to Strasbourg. The former’s move was also confirmed on deadline day.
It’s a continuation of a policy the Blues have adopted since Todd Boehly’s BlueCo group took control, with players like Andrey Santos and Djordje Petrović previously linking up with Strasbourg for game time.
Confirming the exit, Strasbourg issued a short statement: “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.”
For the teenager, it’s another chapter in an already complicated journey. Chelsea’s interest in securing his development is clear, but whether Swansea will be the launchpad for his senior career remains to be seen.
