Ipswich Town have completed the permanent signing of Julio Enciso from RC Strasbourg, bringing the Paraguay international back to Suffolk on a deal running until 2031.
The attacking midfielder returns to Portman Road after previously spending the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan with Ipswich from Brighton & Hove Albion.
The transfer fee has not been disclosed, but the five-year contract underlines Ipswich’s confidence in Enciso’s ability to make a major impact as they prepare for life in the Premier League.
It is also a reunion with Gary O’Neil, who coached Enciso at Strasbourg last season.
Enciso’s time in France helped elevate his reputation after he became an important attacking figure for Strasbourg.
The Paraguayan produced 12 goals and nine assists during the campaign as Strasbourg enjoyed impressive runs in both the UEFA Conference League and Coupe de France, reaching the semi-finals of both competitions.
That form has now convinced Ipswich to bring him back permanently.
Enciso already has fond memories of Portman Road. During his previous loan spell, he made 13 appearances and scored twice.
One of those goals came in spectacular fashion against Everton at Goodison Park, giving Ipswich supporters an early glimpse of the quality he can produce.
The 22-year-old’s return offers Ipswich more than just another attacking option.
Enciso already understands the club, its supporters and the demands of English football.
His previous spell may have been brief, but it was enough to establish a connection that has now helped pave the way for a permanent return.
The playmaker is also arriving with greater experience following his season in France.
Enciso featured prominently for Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making five appearances and scoring the opening goal in Paraguay’s eventual knockout victory over Germany in Boston.
His international experience adds another layer to a player Ipswich will hope can make an immediate contribution.
Enciso made no secret of his excitement after completing the move, admitting his previous experience with the club played a major role in his decision.
“I am so happy to be back at Ipswich Town,” Enciso said after signing.
“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.”
His comments also highlight the importance of O’Neil’s presence in the move.
Having worked with the manager at Strasbourg, Enciso already knows what is expected of him and can begin the next chapter without having to start from scratch.
Ipswich will need attacking players capable of producing moments of quality and creativity, particularly against Premier League opposition.
Enciso’s ability to operate between the lines, create opportunities and contribute goals gives O’Neil another weapon to work with.
His record at Strasbourg suggests the player is entering this new chapter with confidence, while his previous experience in England should make the transition smoother.
For Ipswich, the objective is clear: turn Enciso’s potential into consistent Premier League production.
The permanent return of Enciso is a significant move for Ipswich as they continue building their squad.
He arrives with Premier League experience, European exposure, international pedigree and a manager who knows his game well.
Most importantly, Enciso wants to be back. Now comes the bigger challenge — turning that excitement into goals, assists and performances when the Premier League spotlight returns to Portman Road.
Ipswich have brought Enciso home. Now they want him to make the difference.
Toosin is a dedicated sports writer with a strong background in crafting engaging and insightful content. With experience at Goal, he has developed a sharp editorial sense and a refined storytelling approach that brings depth and perspective to sports journalism. His passion for the game goes beyond the headlines, as he captures both the excitement of the sport and the compelling human narratives behind each event. Toosin’s work resonates with a broad and diverse audience, making global sports stories accessible, relatable, and impactful.
