Chelsea sign Sporting Lisbon midfielder on 8 year deal

Chelsea have completed the signing of Dário Essugo from Sporting Lisbon, the Premier League club announced.

The 20-year-old Portuguese midfielder has signed a long-term deal keeping him at Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2033.

Essugo, regarded as one of Portugal’s most promising young talents, spent last season on loan at La Liga side Las Palmas, where he made 27 appearances and scored one goal.

He has also featured 25 times for Sporting’s senior team, having come through their renowned academy.

In 2021, Essugo made headlines by breaking Luís Figo’s record as the youngest player to start a match for Sporting, doing so at just 16 years, 11 months, and 17 days. He has since represented Portugal at various youth levels.

Chelsea's latest acquisition aligns with their long-term recruitment strategy focused on developing young talent, as the Blues continue to invest in the future under their new ownership structure.

Essugo will link up with the squad in preseason as Chelsea prepare for the 2025/26 campaign.