Liam Duckstein
RC Strasbourg are not slowing down. According to reports from British journalist Pete O’Rourke, the Ligue 1 outfit have made a move for Manchester City’s young centre-back Jahmai Simpson-Pusey. This marks what could become their tenth signing of a frenzied summer window as the club looks to cement itself among France’s most ambitious sides.
With a Europa Conference League play-off berth secured, Strasbourg are intent on fortifying their squad depth. Backed by the BlueCo consortium — the same ownership group behind Chelsea — the Alsace-based club has invested close to €80 million (£68m) in new talent, making them the top spenders in France this summer.
Their recruitment strategy is clear: target high-upside, under-the-radar talents across Europe. So far, they’ve added promising names like Joaquin Panichelli, Mathis Amougou, Andre Omobamidele, Valentin Barco, and Pape Bemba Diop to the roster. Simpson-Pusey, aged just 19, fits the same mould — a technically gifted centre-back with strong physical attributes and elite youth pedigree.
Simpson-Pusey: The Next Gem?
Valued at €5 million (£4.2m) by Transfermarkt, Simpson-Pusey has only six senior appearances for City’s first team but has stood out at U21 level. Known for his composed ball-playing style and ability to read the game, the England youth international could thrive in a league that emphasizes tactical structure and technical sharpness.
What remains unclear is the structure of Strasbourg’s proposal — whether it’s a permanent move, a loan with a buy option, or something in between. That said, the player’s ceiling and fit within Strasbourg’s evolving identity as a youth-driven squad make this more than just another speculative inquiry.
Celtic are also reportedly monitoring Simpson-Pusey’s situation, but Strasbourg’s track record this summer and BlueCo’s Premier League ties could give them the inside track.
With European football on the horizon and domestic ambitions rising, this potential acquisition would underscore Strasbourg’s transformation from Ligue 1 battlers to serious long-term players.