Chelsea have confirmed the capture of Yisa Alao from Sheffield Wednesday in a major January move, beating competition from Premier League rivals Manchester United and Liverpool.
The 17-year-old left-back has already made five first-team appearances for the Championship side this season and has been closely monitored by top clubs for several years due to his rapid development.
Born in Doncaster, England, Alao is of Nigerian descent, adding to the growing pool of dual-nationality talent emerging from English academies.
He made his senior debut for Sheffield Wednesday at just 16 years old in a Carabao Cup tie against Bolton in August, quickly establishing himself as a promising prospect capable of competing at a higher level.
Chelsea announced the signing on Monday, confirming that Alao has put pen to paper on a two-year deal running until 2028.
“Chelsea is pleased to announce the signing of Yisa Alao, with the left-back agreeing a contract with the Blues until 2028. Welcome to Chelsea, Yisa!” the club said in an official statement.
Sheffield Wednesday had reportedly rejected a £450,000 bid from Manchester United before Christmas, with the eventual fee thought to be around £500,000.
While Alao joins the Stamford Bridge squad, reports suggest a loan move back to an EFL club could be on the cards to aid his development, following the path of other young talents like Jimmy-Jay Morgan and Caleb Wiley.
The teenager took to Instagram to thank Sheffield Wednesday fans for their support, posting: “10 years, endless memories, from the staff, to my teammates, to the fans, forever grateful. Thank you, Sheffield Wednesday.”
Chelsea’s acquisition of Alao reflects their continued focus on securing young, high-potential talent for the future.
