Ipswich have signed midfielders, Julio Enciso and Abdoul Ouattara from Strasbourg for undisclosed transfer fees.
Attacking midfielder, Enciso previously spent the second half of the 2024-25 season at Ipswich on loan from Brighton and scored two goals in 13 appearances, before he moved to Strasbourg last September where he delivered 12 goals and nine assists and worked with new Ipswich boss – Gary O’Neil.
“I am so happy to be back at Ipswich Town,” explained Enciso as he reflected on his previous loan stint and then working with O’Neil who replaced Liam Rosenior after the latter made an unsuccessful move to Chelsea in January.
“I really enjoyed my time on loan at the club and I was so happy to see them win promotion back to the Premier League last season. I worked with the manager in France last season and the chance to play for him again at a great club like Ipswich is one I’m very excited for.
O’Neil added that he is “delighted” to be reunited with the 22-year-old who has signed a five-year contract until June 2031 and had featured in all five of Paraguay’s matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, during which he opened the scoring in their eventual Round of 32 cupset over Germany on penalties.
“Supporters will already know what he is capable of, following his loan spell the last time we were in the Premier League, and for me I’m delighted to be working with him again after our time together at Strasbourg last season.
“He is a young player who is capable of creating something out of nothing and has shown that throughout his career, including at the World Cup in the summer.
“We are delighted to have him with us and can’t wait to see him on the pitch.”
Ouattara meanwhile is a versatile player who can play in midfield and both sides of defence, having graduated through Strasbourg’s academy to achieve four goals in 62 senior appearances across the last two seasons.
“I am very happy to have signed for Ipswich Town,” commented Ouattara as he spoke of his happiness at achieving a chance to move to a Premier League club, and has signed a five-year contract until June 2031.
“The Premier League is the best league in the world and as soon as I knew the opportunity was there, to play in England under a manager I have already enjoyed working with, I jumped at it.
“I am still young but have had some good experiences already and I can’t wait to meet the fans and my teammates and get started.”
O’Neil added that he believes that the 20-year-old Ivorian-French player will add extra tactical versatility to his formation options, having loved his time coaching him at Strasbourg.
“Abdoul is a talented young player who can play in different positions, so is a very good addition to our squad.
“We enjoyed working with him in France last season and are delighted to have the opportunity to do so again at Ipswich.”
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