Ipswich Town chase €25m Paraguayan forward after World Cup

Ipswich Town have identified 22‑year‑old Paraguayan forward Julio Enciso of RC Strasbourg Alsace as a transfer target, valuing him at €25 million after his World Cup showing. The English side could seal the deal at Portman Road under newly appointed manager Gary O’Neil.

Gary O’Neil’s link to Enciso dates back to last season when the two worked together at Strasbourg in France. Their collaboration during the previous campaign gave O’Neil first‑hand insight into the Paraguayan’s abilities.

Enciso was part of Paraguay’s World Cup squad that reached the round of 16, featuring in the upset that eliminated Germany. His contributions helped Paraguay advance further than many expected.

Since joining Strasbourg last summer, Enciso has logged 42 appearances, netting 12 goals and delivering nine assists, and has been decisive in 21 of those matches. These numbers underline his importance to the French side.

During the 2024–25 season he spent the second half on loan with the Tractor Boys, Brighton & Hove Albion’s reserve team, playing 13 games, scoring twice and providing three assists. The spell added further experience in English football.

Enciso is contracted to RC Strasbourg Alsace until 2030, and Transfermarkt places his market value at €25 million, meaning any move to Ipswich would require a significant outlay.

A transfer would reshape the forward lines of both clubs, giving Ipswich a proven World Cup performer while leaving Strasbourg to replace a key attacker who has been decisive in a third of his appearances.