Real Madrid have officially confirmed the permanent departure of academy striker Jacobo Ortega, who has joined Ligue 1 club Strasbourg. The deal marks a significant financial milestone for the Spanish giants, as they have secured a record transfer fee for an academy player who never made a senior appearance for the club. On Monday, August 17, the club issued a statement on their website thanking the 20-year-old for his “dedication throughout all these years” and wishing him success in his “new stage.”
According to reports, the Estadio Bernabeu side will receive €10 million for the transfer. The agreement also stipulates that Real Madrid has sold 70% of the player’s rights while retaining a clause that allows them to match future buy-back options. Ortega, who celebrated his 20th birthday in May, is tied to Strasbourg through a contract that runs until 2031. He arrives at the French club with high expectations, particularly following the departure of Emmanuel Emegha to Chelsea and the ongoing recovery of Joaquin Panichelli from a knee injury.
Ortega’s move follows an impressive 2025-26 campaign where he featured for Real Madrid C, Juvenil A, and Castilla. Across 56 appearances for the club’s various age-group teams, he recorded 18 goals and two assists. His contributions were instrumental in the team’s UEFA Youth League success, which included a goal in the final against Club Brugge. With his move to France, the young forward is expected to receive increased playing time at the professional level.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has expressed confidence in his squad as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. Following a 3-0 pre-season victory over Schalke, Mourinho noted that both new and returning players are ready to perform, particularly as he manages the workload of those who participated in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After a trophyless campaign last year, the team is set to open their La Liga season with an away match against Espanyol on Saturday, August 22, followed by their first home fixture against Real Sociedad on Wednesday, August 26. The report also notes that the Spaniard’s Strasbourg deal will expire in 2031.
