Young winger Quenda inks long‑term deal with Blues, joins academy prospect Jess Derry until 2032

In a statement released on 9 July, Chelsea confirmed that it has secured the services of 19‑year‑old Portuguese forward Gio Vani Quenda on a contract that runs through 2034. The player joins from Sporting Lisbon, where he was a pivotal figure in a double‑trophy season and earned the 2025 Primeira Liga Young Player of the Season accolade.

Quenda’s versatility allows him to operate on either flank as a winger or drop deeper as a wing‑back. He made 54 appearances across all competitions last season, becoming Sporting’s youngest ever scorer and setting a new benchmark as the youngest Portuguese to score in the Champions League.

The youngster expressed his enthusiasm about moving to Stamford Bridge, praising the club’s belief in his abilities and emphasizing his readiness to give his all for manager Javier Alonzo’s side. His short‑term goal is to add to Chelsea’s trophy cabinet while continuing his development with the England under‑21 national team, where he recently featured in the 2025 European Championship.

The announcement also detailed a new deal for Jess Derry, a home‑grown midfielder who impressed in the academy, made his senior debut in the FA Cup against Halifax City, and earned his first Premier League start against Nottingham Forest. Derry’s contract now runs until 2032, securing his future at the club.