Chelsea snap up Luton starlets

Brothers Rio, Cole and Jay Dasilva have signed terms with the Blues in separate transfers, each worth five figures, which will in total net the Town a significant sum.

Twins Rio and Cole, 12, and older brother Jay, 13, had all been part of the academy since the age of seven. The compensation agreements will also include additional payments should the boys progress through the ranks, with the overall deal reaching seven figures should the trio go on to play for the Blues’ first team.

Town’s youth development officer Gregg Broughton said: “This is a historic deal to see three brothers transferred together.

“Following our loss in the play-offs last season we were told that the boys wished to look at other options, as was their prerogative to do so.

“After six months of uncertainty, we are delighted that they have found a club where they are settled and one that recognises the development work that Luton Town have put in over the last five years.

“Jay is a special talent, a fantastic student of the game whose temperament complements his technical ability.

“Cole has strong physical attributes and is very comfortable in possession while Rio is a real livewire, whose ability to play in tight areas has always allowed him to shine.

“Their family has a strong footballing background with older brother Ryan playing as a professional here and father Trevor also a very talented player.

“We never like to lose talented players, but if players are unsettled and wish to look elsewhere, and the deal is right for all parties, then it is the most sensible way to progress.

“We would like to thank Chelsea for the professional manner in which they have conducted themselves and wish the boys the very best for their ongoing careers.”

Town’s managing director Gary Sweet added: “The sale of three bright prospects to a club of the stature of Chelsea further strengthens our reputation as one of the most successful clubs in the country for recognising and developing future football stars.

“Jay, Rio and Cole have exciting futures ahead of them and we are proud to have been involved in their development.

“Last Wednesday’s tribunal hearing (see page 95) further substantiates our position that we will not stand by and let clubs pick up our players for nothing after we have spent time and money developing them.

“Chelsea have behaved impeccably during the negotiation process and for that we thank them unreservedly.

“On behalf of everyone at the club I would like to wish all three brothers all the very best in their fledgling careers away from Kenilworth Road.”

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