No Juventus move: Fabrizio Romano confirms Nigerian striker expected to join Chelsea in 2026

Chelsea are preparing for Nigeria-eligible striker Emanuel Emegha to become part of their senior squad from the summer of 2026, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. 

The Blues' long-term strategy was first hinted at in May, but Romano reaffirmed the plan in a fresh update shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday.

"Chelsea are planning for Emanuel Emegha to be part of their squad from summer 2026," Romano posted.

He added that Emegha is expected to stay at Strasbourg this summer and then join the Chelsea project next year if all goes to plan.

Currently contracted to RC Strasbourg , the 21-year-old striker has been earmarked as a future talent within Chelsea’s multi-club model. 

Strasbourg, part of the BlueCo ownership group alongside Chelsea, will serve as a development platform for the young forward over the coming season.

Despite some reports linking Emegha with a potential switch to Juventus, Romano confirmed that there has been no concrete movement regarding a transfer to the Italian giants at this stage.

Born in the Netherlands to Nigerian and Togolese parents, Emegha is eligible to represent either African country internationally. 

However, he has committed his future to the Dutch national team. Confident in his trajectory, Emegha has said he believes he can make an impact at the senior international level.

He has previously featured for the Netherlands at youth levels, including U15, U19, U20, and U21, and is seen as one of the country’s brightest attacking prospects.

If all progresses as planned, Chelsea will integrate the tri-national player into their squad for the 2026/27 season, adding more youth and athleticism to their long-term project under the BlueCo vision.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: rcstrasbourgalsace.fr

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