RC Strasbourg has successfully completed the recruitment of Senegalese prodigy Yaya Diémé, the highly talented 17-year-old forward, marking a significant step in the club’s strategy of developing young talent.
The move has been confirmed by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano and aligns with reports from Senegalese media outlet Taggat.
Diémé, a product of Senegal’s esteemed Diambars Academy, was a key figure in his nation’s triumph at the 2023 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where Senegal emerged as champions.
In the final, they defeated Morocco 2-1, with Diémé playing a pivotal role in his team’s success.
The winger, known for his flair and skill, attracted interest from several top clubs across Europe, including prominent sides from England, France, and Germany.
However, Strasbourg managed to secure his signature in a move that sees the teenager join the French club once he turns 18 in 2026.
🔵🇸🇳 Strasbourg have agreed deal to sign 17 year old winger Yaya Diémé to join from Senegal from 2026 when he turns 18.
BlueCo Group (with potential future view on Chelsea move) have been following and monitoring him for months and now closed a deal, as @taggatsn reports. pic.twitter.com/5VKS5Au98p
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 8, 2025
The young winger’s move to Strasbourg will reunite him with fellow Senegalese player Pape Diong, who joined the club last summer.
Diong, an 18-year-old defensive midfielder, was also part of the U17 squad that triumphed in the African tournament.
The two players shared success at the continental level, and their return to Strasbourg could prove beneficial as they continue their development together.
While Diémé’s time at Strasbourg will be spent honing his skills, there is also speculation that the winger could eventually make a move to Chelsea.
Romano further suggests that Chelsea, part of the BlueCo group which owns Strasbourg, may have long-term plans for the young talent.
If such a transfer materializes, it would be another step in Chelsea’s broader recruitment strategy of signing top youth prospects.
However, before his potential move to one of Europe’s top clubs, Diémé will focus on his development at Strasbourg, with the club hoping to benefit from his contributions as they continue their efforts to develop promising young talent.
While Diémé embarks on his journey with Strasbourg, his former club, Diambars, is facing a period of transition.
The Senegalese academy team suffered relegation from the top flight of the Senegalese league last season, finishing last out of 14 teams.
Despite the setback, Diémé’s success story offers hope and encouragement for the academy and its future prospects.
In the coming years, Yaya Diémé will be one to watch as he embarks on his professional career in Europe.
The young striker’s potential, bolstered by his achievements with Senegal’s U17 team, has already made him a player in high demand across the continent.