Ipswich Town have completed the permanent signing of Paraguay international Julio Enciso from Strasbourg, bringing the attacking midfielder back to Portman Road ahead of their Premier League return.
The 22-year-old has signed a five-year contract running until 2031. Ipswich have officially described the transfer fee as undisclosed, although reports have placed the deal at around €30 million.
Enciso is already familiar with Suffolk after spending the second half of the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Ipswich from Brighton & Hove Albion.
He made 13 Premier League appearances during that spell and scored twice as he gained his first experience of playing at Portman Road.
The Paraguayan subsequently left Brighton for Strasbourg, where his career took another significant step forward.
Enciso produced 12 goals and nine assists in 42 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign. His performances helped Strasbourg reach the semi-finals of both the UEFA Conference League and Coupe de France.
His season in France also gave him the opportunity to work with Gary O’Neil, who has since taken charge at Ipswich.
That existing relationship was an important attraction for Enciso when the opportunity emerged to return to England.
“I am so happy to be back at Ipswich Town,” Enciso said following confirmation of his transfer.
“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.
“I can’t wait to see the supporters again.”
Enciso’s reputation also received a major boost on the international stage this summer.
He represented Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where his country reached the round of 16. Enciso played a prominent role in Paraguay’s memorable knockout victory over Germany, opening the scoring before the South American side eventually advanced on penalties in Boston.
The move therefore brings Ipswich a player who knows the Premier League, the club and their new manager while still being only 22.
Ipswich are preparing for another attempt at establishing themselves in the top flight after winning promotion from the Championship last season. The club have invested heavily in their squad this summer, with Enciso becoming another significant addition to O’Neil’s rebuilding project.
For Enciso, the move represents an opportunity to return to familiar surroundings after an impressive year in France and a breakthrough World Cup campaign.
This time, however, his stay at Portman Road is intended to be a long one.
