Ethan Ampadu: Sheffield United sign Chelsea defender on season-long loan
Wales international leaves to get more game-time after frustrating six-month loan spell at RB Leipzig
Last Updated: 07/09/20 8:47pm
Sheffield United have signed Chelsea defender Ethan Ampadu on a season-long loan.
The 19-year-old, who can play in a number or defensive and midfield roles, follows Derby County duo Jayden Bogle and Max Lowe, who also made the move to Bramall Lane on Monday.
The Wales international has returned from a six-month loan spell at RB Leipzig and will temporarily leave Stamford Bridge again in the hunt for more first-team experience.
"Ethan is an outstanding young player for Chelsea, and we've worked really hard to get his signature for the season," said Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder.
"We need to thank Frank Lampard and the people at Chelsea for helping making this happen. We've got a good relationship with them and they know we're going to take good care of him.
"It's an important season for Ethan and playing in the Premier League for us is a good move for everyone. He brings a lot of qualities to the group and he's someone we've tracked for two or three seasons."
The former Exeter City youngster has been playing more for Wales than any club side, starring in their 1-0 wins against Finland and Bulgaria in the Nations League.
Wales boss Ryan Giggs said it is time for Ampadu to decide if he wants to fight for a first-team spot at Chelsea or go to a club where he may be guaranteed more game time.
"I want all the players to be playing regularly, but that sometimes isn't the case," said Giggs.
"It's that balance over whether they're at a top club and surrounded by top players and improving every day, but ultimately you need minutes on the pitch.
"That's a decision for Ethan. I've talked to him a lot about that. I think last year was maybe a little bit different as he had injuries.
"You could see from the game he played against Tottenham in the Champions League he was outstanding. Nothing fazes him, he's a quality player, and he just needs to keep fit now."
A swap deal with West Brom involving Oliver Burke and Callum Robinson is also edging closer as the Blades look to increase their transfer activity before their Premier League opener against Wolves on Monday.
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