Strasbourg keep Samir El Mourabet as Chelsea-linked network rejects RB Leipzig interest

The proposed move for Strasbourg midfielder Samir El Mourabet to RB Leipzig has been blocked after Behdad Eghbali, Chelsea’s co-owner, reportedly opposed the player’s departure.

El Mourabet had attracted interest from several European clubs, with Leipzig understood to have identified the young midfielder as one of their main transfer priorities. However, the 19-year-old is now regarded as unavailable by Strasbourg, according to Foot Mercato.

The decision reflects the wider strategy of BlueCo, the American consortium that owns Chelsea and Strasbourg. BlueCo wants to continue overseeing El Mourabet’s development within its multi-club structure rather than allow him to leave during the current summer transfer window.

That stance has forced Leipzig to pursue an alternative. The German club has instead decided to focus on signing Neil El Aynaoui from AS Roma, a move reported exclusively by Africafoot.

Juventus and Villarreal had also shown an interest in El Mourabet, but neither club has been able to change Strasbourg’s position. The midfielder is now expected to remain in Alsace as the transfer window approaches its conclusion.

El Mourabet is under contract with Strasbourg until June 2030. His market value is estimated at 22m euros by Transfermarkt, and he is expected to continue his progression within the BlueCo structure before potentially considering a new challenge at a later stage.

The situation represents a significant change from the previous expectation that Leipzig could make a move for the midfielder. Strasbourg’s position means El Mourabet will remain with the club for now, while BlueCo continues to monitor his development through its network.

His immediate focus is likely to remain with Strasbourg, who will soon face Troyes in the third round of the French championship. The match is scheduled to take place only a few days before the end of the transfer window.

Betting company 1xBet lists Troyes as favourites for the fixture, with odds of 1.40 for a home victory. A draw is priced at 5.00, while Strasbourg’s victory is listed at 6.50.