Elfsborg close to signing Fulham defender Jonathan Esenga

IF Elfsborg are reportedly close to signing Fulham youth defender Jonathan Esenga as the Swedish club look to strengthen their squad for the final stretch of the Allsvenskan season.

The 19-year-old left-back is expected to arrive from Fulham’s academy in the coming days.

Elfsborg have endured an inconsistent campaign under new head coach Bjorn Hamberg. The Boras-based side currently sit seventh in the league table, four points outside the European places, and see defensive reinforcements as important to their hopes of climbing the standings.

According to Expressen, Esenga is nearing a move that would represent a notable acquisition from a Premier League club’s youth system. The defender made 14 starts in England’s Under-21 competition last season, contributing one goal and eight assists.

Those figures highlight his attacking influence from left-back, as well as his potential to offer width and creativity in Elfsborg’s system. At 19, he would arrive with room to develop while competing for regular senior football in Sweden.

The transfer has not yet been officially announced, but reports suggest an agreement is close. Elfsborg will hope Esenga’s energy and output can help steady their season and support a renewed push for European qualification.