Chelsea’s BlueCo project has been dealt a major blow after Julio Enciso’s proposed transfer to Strasbourg fell through due to concerns over his injury record.
The Brighton forward had agreed to a €15 million move last week, with plans to initially join Strasbourg before developing into a long-term Chelsea player. However, doubts over his fitness have forced the deal to collapse at the final stage.
Enciso underwent knee surgery in June and has only recently returned to rehabilitation training with Brighton. Reports from Paraguay first suggested the transfer was in jeopardy, and French outlet L’Equipe has now confirmed the agreement is off.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler provided an update on the 21-year-old’s condition, explaining that the injury was not overly serious and that the club remains in close contact with the player. Hurzeler added that further developments could still arise before the transfer window closes on Monday.
Enciso had impressed last season during a loan spell at Ipswich, making 12 appearances, scoring twice, and registering three assists before injury cut his campaign short. His form convinced BlueCo to pursue him as a long-term investment.
However, his medical history has raised red flags. The Paraguayan international has now undergone surgery on the same knee three times, and it is believed that an additional medical examination was what ultimately led to the collapse of the move.
Enciso looks set to remain at Brighton for the immediate future, leaving uncertainty over his next step as he continues his recovery.
COURTESY: Worldkokoblog
