Chelsea are reportedly leading the pursuit of Strasbourg’s versatile defender Guela Doue ahead of the January 2026 transfer window.
Chelsea Lead Race to Sign Strasbourg Defender Guela Doue
The Blues face competition from several Premier League rivals and European clubs for the 23-year-old’s signature.
According to a report from Caught Offside, Chelsea currently hold a strong position in the race to sign the right-back.
However, English clubs including Aston Villa, Brighton, and Brentford are also closely tracking the player’s development.
In Europe, both AC Milan and RB Leipzig have registered interest, with the Italian side viewing him as an immediate solution and the German club considering him a long-term project.
Doue has made a significant impression at Strasbourg since his move from Rennes in the summer of 2024. The Ivorian defender enjoyed a solid debut season, making 32 Ligue 1 appearances.
He has started the 2025-26 campaign even more strongly, contributing one goal and two assists in his first five games.
His mature performances have not gone unnoticed, with Chelsea scouts reportedly watching him closely during Strasbourg’s recent match against Paris Saint-Germain.
The defender’s versatility is a key asset, as he can operate effectively as a centre-back or a defensive midfielder in addition to his primary role at right-back.
Strasbourg, however, are under no financial pressure to sell, as Doue’s contract runs until 2029. This allows the French club to demand a substantial transfer fee, which sources indicate could be around £26 million.
A potential move for Doue aligns with Chelsea’s apparent plan to bolster their right-back options. Manager Enzo Maresca currently relies on Reece James and Malo Gusto.
While James remains world-class when fit, his persistent fitness issues pose a recurring problem. Gusto, meanwhile, was the subject of transfer interest from Bayern Munich last summer.
If the Frenchman departs in the future, Chelsea see Doue as a potential replacement and possess the financial capability to meet Strasbourg’s asking price.
