Serie A club Empoli have reportedly made a loan offer for Chelsea youngster Ethan Ampadu.
According to the Evening Standard, the Italian top-flight side want to sign the 21-year-old Blues player this season.
The report claims Empoli have made contact with a bid to take the Wales international on loan, but any potential deal hinges on what Chelsea do in the transfer market involving incomings.
Apparently, Thomas Tuchel’s side won’t allow Ampadu to leave until there’s a “major” new signing made at centre-back.
Ampadu’s a great versatile youngster that’s shown his quality as both a centre-half or midfielder, so right now he’s a great option as cover in the squad at Stamford Bridge.
Empoli loan offer for Ampadu
Ampadu, 21, could potentially spend another year out on loan if the correct pieces fall into place.
The talented youngster spent last season on loan with Italian outfit Venezia, who were eventually relegated from the top division.
However, the Chelsea-owned talent is getting the kind of first-team minutes in his legs that is so crucial to develop at his age.
With Chelsea desperate for a “major” new addition in defence, surely Leicester City’s Wesley Fofana fits that profile.
It’s been reported that the Blues are pushing to sign Leicester’s 21-year-old centre-back, so could his future have a knock on effect on Ampadu?
Ampadu definitely didn’t look out of place during pre-season with Tuchel’s group, but another year out on loan during a World Cup year could be the right move for the individual.
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