Notts County agrees loan deal for Chelsea defender Ishe Samuels-Smith

Notts County has reached an agreement with Chelsea to sign defender Ishe Samuels-Smith on loan for the 2026/27 season. The 20-year-old left-back, who joined Chelsea in 2023, is expected to move to Meadow Lane to gain regular senior playing time.

Chelsea reportedly views Notts County as an ideal destination for the player due to the style of football played under manager Martin Paterson. Samuels-Smith, who previously had a brief loan spell at Swansea City, is expected to compete for positions as a left-sided centre-back or left wing-back.

The move follows Notts County’s successful use of the loan market during their recent promotion from League Two. The club continues to focus on strategic loans and free transfers to remain competitive in League One.