‘There Are Rumours and Talks’ – Fabian Hurzeler Gives Major Update on Julio Enciso’s Potential Exit as Chelsea Owners BlueCo Eye Shock Swoop

Enciso at the Centre of a Familiar Brighton–Chelsea Transfer Storm

It seems you can’t go more than a few transfer windows without a tug of war between Brighton & Hove Albion and Chelsea. The latest chapter revolves around Julio Enciso, the Paraguayan forward whose dazzling talent and inconsistencies have kept fans both hopeful and frustrated in equal measure. Now, Chelsea’s ownership group, BlueCo, has set its sights on the 21-year-old, sparking rumours of yet another raid on the Amex Stadium.

For Brighton fans, the script feels all too familiar. A gifted youngster, spotted and nurtured by the club’s sharp recruitment team, is suddenly linked with Stamford Bridge. But there’s a twist this time: Enciso may not head directly to Chelsea. Instead, he could be shipped to Strasbourg, the French side also under BlueCo’s umbrella, as part of the multi-club model that the American-led consortium is so keen to develop.

What Happened?

According to reports from England and France, Enciso has already agreed personal terms with BlueCo after discussions with his representatives. The plan, insiders say, is for him to join Strasbourg first—giving him time to develop further in a slightly less demanding environment before potentially moving on to Chelsea in a season or two.

While no official announcement has been made, the noise around the deal grew so loud that Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler was left with no choice but to address it publicly. Speaking ahead of his side’s upcoming clash with Everton, Hurzeler confirmed there was substance to the rumours, though he stopped short of declaring anything final.

What Fabian Hurzeler Said

West Ham United FC v Brighton & Hove Albion FC – Premier League

“There are rumours and talks but nothing is done yet so we can’t comment,” Hurzeler told the media, carefully choosing his words.

“When I worked with Julio I was very pleased. A young guy with big potential. It was positive. He had some injuries but overall a young kid who wants to play, you can feel the passion. There are several reasons [why he is leaving]. Some players perform in some environments. I would not say it is bad time. He’s a young player with big potential. You can see there is a big interest as he has potential. Some things could be better but it was not a bad period so far.”

Hurzeler’s comments were diplomatic but telling. He acknowledged Enciso’s talent while subtly pointing to his inconsistency and injury record. His words also hinted at something Brighton fans know well: when Chelsea come calling with money and a pathway, it’s often a matter of when, not if, the move happens.

Enciso’s Time at Brighton

Enciso arrived at Brighton in 2022 from Libertad, one of Paraguay’s biggest clubs, with huge expectations. He was touted as a future star for both club and country, a raw attacker with flair, power, and the ability to produce moments of magic.

And he has delivered some of those moments. In his 57 appearances for the Seagulls, he has scored five goals and provided six assists. His most iconic contribution remains his thunderbolt strike against Manchester City in May 2023—a goal so good it was crowned Premier League Goal of the Season.

Yet, as is often the case with young talents, consistency proved elusive. Injuries disrupted his rhythm, and Brighton’s crowded attacking options made it difficult for him to lock down a starting role. Still, the flashes of brilliance ensured that top clubs kept a close watch.

The Bigger Picture: Chelsea and BlueCo’s Multi-Club Strategy

What makes this story different from previous Brighton–Chelsea dealings is the involvement of Strasbourg. Since acquiring the French club, BlueCo have been funnelling young talents into Ligue 1 as a way of easing them into European football before potentially transitioning them to the Premier League.

Enciso looks set to be the latest piece in that puzzle. The plan would see him play regularly in France, away from the intensity of English football, while Chelsea monitor his development closely. If he flourishes, Stamford Bridge awaits. If not, the risk to Chelsea is minimized, as Strasbourg absorbs much of the short-term burden.

It’s a strategy Chelsea have already tested. Earlier this summer, Valentin Barco—another South American prodigy—was sent down the same route. For Chelsea, this approach allows them to hoard talent without overcrowding their squad. For Brighton, however, it’s another painful reminder that they remain vulnerable to the financial muscle of the Premier League elite.

Did You Know?

• Enciso became the youngest Paraguayan ever to score in the Premier League when he netted against Chelsea in April 2023.

• He has been capped more than 20 times by Paraguay, despite only turning 21 this year.

• His goal against Manchester City was the first time Brighton ever avoided defeat to the champions at the Amex.

Brighton Fans’ Frustration

The reaction from Brighton supporters has been predictably tense. They’ve already seen Chelsea swoop in for Marc Cucurella, Moises Caicedo, and Robert Sánchez, stripping the club of some of its brightest stars. Now, losing Enciso feels like salt in the wound, especially as he represented one of the most exciting young players in the squad.

Fans are also weary of the recurring narrative: Brighton scout and develop, Chelsea swoop with bigger wages and promises of the big stage. It’s a cycle that has helped Brighton financially but has tested the patience of a fanbase eager to see their club break into the Premier League elite on their own terms.

What Next for Enciso?

Norwich City v Brighton & Hove Albion – Emirates FA Cup Third Round

If the move goes through as expected, Enciso will likely start the season at Strasbourg. For the player, it could be the perfect environment to build confidence and consistency away from the glare of the Premier League. Ligue 1 has been fertile ground for young South American attackers, and Enciso may thrive with regular minutes.

For Chelsea, the long-term ambition is clear: polish Enciso into a forward capable of contributing at Stamford Bridge. Given his age and raw ability, the potential return is enormous. But it comes with no guarantees.

Conclusion: A Transfer That Says It All

The saga around Enciso’s potential exit encapsulates so much about modern football: the power of ownership groups, the ruthless efficiency of Chelsea’s recruitment strategy, and the frustration of clubs like Brighton who continue to punch above their weight only to see their best assets picked apart.

For Enciso, this could be the launchpad his career needs—or another detour in a path already disrupted by injuries and inconsistency. For Brighton, it’s another reminder of the harsh reality of being a “selling club.” And for Chelsea, it’s yet another bet on the future, fuelled by the deep pockets and wide reach of BlueCo.

As Hurzeler himself said: “There are rumours and talks.” In today’s football landscape, that usually means one thing—the deal is coming.