Chelsea have made a major statement in the transfer market by securing two of the brightest young talents in European football. The Blues have signed Sporting Lisbon’s teenage sensation Geovany Quenda for a record-breaking €52 million, making him the most expensive U-17 player in history. Alongside him, they have also acquired his teammate Dario Essugo for €22 million, taking their total spending on the duo to a staggering €75 million.
While Manchester United were reportedly interested in signing Quenda, their hesitation allowed Chelsea to swoop in and finalize the deal before their rivals could act. This bold move highlights Chelsea’s aggressive recruitment strategy and their commitment to investing in the future.
Chelsea Move Fast as United Hesitate
Manchester United had been linked with Geovany Quenda for months, with new manager Ruben Amorim reportedly keen on bringing him to Old Trafford. Having previously worked with Quenda at Sporting Lisbon, Amorim knew the 17-year-old’s potential and saw him as a key part of United’s rebuild.
However, while United’s board hesitated over whether to make an official bid, Chelsea wasted no time. The Blues acted decisively, securing Quenda’s signature and ensuring he will be part of their future plans. In doing so, they not only beat United to one of the most promising young players in world football but also added another rising star to their ever-growing talent pool.
Quenda Becomes the Most Expensive U-17 Player in History
The €52 million Chelsea paid for Geovany Quenda makes him the most expensive under-17 player ever, surpassing Real Madrid’s €47.5 million signing of Brazilian wonderkid Endrick.
Quenda’s rapid rise to prominence has been nothing short of spectacular. He has already established himself as a key player for Sporting Lisbon’s first team, making 44 appearances this season and contributing two goals and eight assists.
| became also the Kid of All Time
4. Endrick (at 16) — €35M (+ €25M)
2. Rodrygo (at 17) — €45M
2. Vini JR (at 16) — €45M
1. G. Quenda (at 17) — €50.8M (+ €1.4M) pic.twitter.com/dvCjcYso5t
— Rising Stars XI (@RisingStarXI) March 20, 2025
Although he was originally deployed as a right-back under Amorim, Quenda has since transitioned into a more attacking role, proving his versatility. His ability to play multiple positions is one of the key reasons Chelsea were willing to invest so heavily in him.
Despite completing the transfer, Chelsea have agreed to let Quenda remain at Sporting Lisbon for another season to continue his development. He will officially join the Blues in July 2026.
Chelsea Also Secure Dario Essugo for €22 Million
In addition to signing Quenda, Chelsea also secured his Sporting Lisbon teammate, Dario Essugo, for €22 million. The 21-year-old midfielder is currently on loan at Spanish club Las Palmas, where he has been gaining valuable experience in La Liga.
BREAKING: Dario Essugo to Chelsea, here we go! Agreement done with Sporting and medical completed.
€22m transfer fee for 20 year old midfielder to join #CFC THIS summer and be part of the first team.
Essugo will sign a 7 year deal.
Quenda joins in 2026 for €48m fee. pic.twitter.com/pLBwo3R29D
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 15, 2025
Essugo, who is part of Portugal’s U-21 squad, has been highly rated for his physicality, defensive capabilities, and composure on the ball. With Chelsea’s midfield already boasting stars like Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, and Romeo Lavia, Essugo will have the perfect environment to develop and learn from some of the best young midfielders in the game.
Once he completes his season with Las Palmas, he will move to London, where he is expected to provide additional support in Chelsea’s midfield.
Chelsea’s Commitment to Youth Development
Chelsea’s recent transfer activity demonstrates their long-term vision. Since the takeover by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the club has heavily invested in young players. The acquisitions of Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, Andrey Santos, and now Quenda and Essugo indicate a clear strategy of securing the best emerging talents before their value skyrockets.
By focusing on young prospects, Chelsea are building a squad with long-term sustainability. The club is not just looking for immediate success but also preparing for the future by assembling a core group of highly talented players who can develop together.
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A Blow for Manchester United
For Manchester United, missing out on Quenda is a significant setback. With new manager Ruben Amorim looking to reshape the squad, Quenda was seen as a player who could fit perfectly into his vision for the team.
United’s failure to act quickly allowed Chelsea to take advantage of the situation. While the Red Devils continue to evaluate their transfer targets, their indecision has cost them a player who could have been a major asset for years to come.
This serves as a reminder of the importance of being proactive in the transfer market, especially when competing with clubs like Chelsea, who are willing to move quickly and decisively.
What’s Next for Chelsea?
With Quenda and Essugo secured, Chelsea’s focus will now shift to other areas of their squad. While they have one of the most promising young teams in Europe, they may still look to add more experienced players to balance their squad.
As for the two new signings, Quenda will remain at Sporting Lisbon for one more season, while Essugo will continue his loan spell at Las Palmas before heading to Stamford Bridge.
By securing these two highly-rated Portuguese talents, Chelsea have once again proven that they are ahead of the curve when it comes to identifying and investing in the next generation of footballing stars.
