Stoke City linked with loan move for Chelsea defender

Stoke City are reportedly one of four clubs who are seen as potential loan destinations for highly-rated young Chelsea left-back Ishe Samuels-Smith.

‌The 19-year-old joined Chelsea from Everton in 2023 and, although he is yet to make his first team debut, it is a sign of how well he is regarded that he has been tied down to a six-year contract just a couple of months ago.

‌Seasoned Chelsea youth team watchers football.london picked him out as “one of the most impressive young players at the club” and added: “As a commanding physical presence with a tall frame, Samuels-Smith is elegant on the ball and composed without it as well. He is a terrific when in one-on-one scenarios and can also contribute moving forward from full-back as well.”

‌Chelsea bosses are now trying to work out the best next stage of development for the England under-19s international and that will probably involve a loan this season to taste senior football for the first time.

It is claimed by football.london that Stoke, Middlesbrough, Sunderland and Rangers are keen and “have all held club-to-club talks” about a possible deal.

They add: “Chelsea will talk to Samuels-Smith next week over his future and where he would like to go out of all the options on the table at the moment, football.london understands. Sources have said we should know much more about where Samuels-Smith will be playing his football for the 2025/26 season over the next fortnight.”

Stoke have Eric Bocat at left-back and released Enda Stevens as well as Lynden Gooch and Jordan Thompson, with the latter two having filled in at times in that position in the last two seasons.

The Potters have Josh Bickerton and Laurence Giani coming through the ranks and will have to weigh up what they need and expect from any potential left-back they bring in.