Fabrizio Romano Confirms Chelsea’s Transfer Deal

Jordan Hartwell

Published: February 2, 2026 7:09 AM ET

Fabrizio Romano Confirms Chelsea’s Transfer Deal

Chelsea Football Club has confirmed a significant transfer deal involving academy winger Ato Ampah. According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ampah is set to join Championship team Stoke City on a permanent basis.

Ato Ampah’s Transfer Details

Ato Ampah, who is just 19 years old, recently signed a new contract with Chelsea in July. Despite this, he is now departing Stamford Bridge before the close of the transfer window. Romano announced on X that Stoke City has finalized an agreement for Ampah, stating:

Stoke City has completed a deal to sign Ato Ampah.
Ampah will undergo a medical examination today.
Chelsea will retain a substantial sell-on clause.
Transfer fee could rise to a £3 million package.

Ampah’s Performance at Chelsea

Ampah’s experience with the first team at Chelsea is limited; he has made just one appearance. This match occurred during a 3-1 victory against FC Astana in the Europa Conference League last season. However, he has been more impactful in the U21 team, where he scored four goals and provided six assists in just 13 matches this season.

Stoke City’s Transfer Activity

Stoke City is aiming to enhance their squad. They currently sit in 12th place in the Championship table. Ampah will become their third signing of the January transfer window, following the acquisitions of:

Gavin Bazunu (goalkeeper, on loan from Southampton)
Milan Smit (forward, from Go Ahead Eagles)

Chelsea’s Other Deadline Day Moves

Alongside Ampah’s move, Chelsea has arranged two other exits on Deadline Day. Yahya Idrissi has joined AC Milan on a permanent transfer, while Frankie Runham will spend the remainder of the season on loan at Ipswich Town.

Runham expressed excitement about his loan move, stating, “I’m delighted to be at this massive club. I see the club’s going in the right direction and feel it’s the right place for my career.”

Additionally, several other players, including Tyrique George, Axel Disasi, and David Datro Fofana, are expected to leave Chelsea on loan before the transfer deadline at 19:00 BST.