Chelsea are in ‘strongest position’ to sign Strasbourg right-back Guela Doue in January

Chelsea are leading the race to sign Strasbourg right-back Guela Doue in January, the club said Taken offside.

Chelsea are taking full advantage of their BlueCo multi-club structure, having already completed six transfers involving their sister club RC Strasbourg, with more transactions expected to follow in the coming period.

One of the players who could make the move is Doue, who has shown maturity and consistency beyond his years since moving to the Stade de la Meinau from Rennes in the summer of 2024.

He has been crucial to the club’s strong performances and results since his arrival and has continued his strong form this season with three goals in five games and excellent defensive performances.

According to Caught offsideChelsea are in the ‘strongest position’ to sign Doué after closely monitoring his progress with Alsace.

The report adds that the west London club had scouts present at the Parc des Princes to watch the 23-year-old, who impressed in Friday’s 3-3 draw against French champions Paris Saint-Germain.

Chelsea are in the ‘strongest position’ to sign Doue

However, with the right-back consistently putting in impressive performances, interest in his signature is expected to increase. The report claims that AC Milan, RB Leipzig, Real Betis, Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford are also keeping a close eye on the French-born Ivorian international’s performances.

With a contract running until the summer of 2029, Strasbourg are in a strong negotiating position and are in no rush to part ways with Doue unless they receive an offer of around £26m, the report said.

Strasbourg had a fantastic start to the season, sitting third with 16 points, just two behind leaders Marseille. While centre-forward Joaquin Panichelli stole the spotlight with a brace against PSG, Doue’s performance was equally impressive. The defender not only nullified his brother Desire’s attacking threat, but also registered an assist.

For Chelsea, the Ivorian would certainly provide extra defensive stability for Enzo Maresca’s side, who have only kept two clean sheets in the Premier League so far.

However, doubts remain over his attacking contribution in a possession-oriented setup like Chelsea’s. With Malo Gusto, Reece James and Josh Acheampong already able to fill that role, the club’s resources may be better focused on strengthening the centre-back position, an area hardest hit by recurring injuries to key players.