Wales boss Rob Page has admitted that he will have a conversation with Ethan Ampadu concerning his Chelsea future, hoping to ensure the 21-year-old enjoys plenty of playing time ahead of this winter’s World Cup.
Ampadu has spent all of pre-season with the Blues and enjoyed some playing time during the squad’s pre-season tour of the USA but has been absent for two of Thomas Tuchel’s first three Premier League squads.
The Welsh international had even completed 90 minutes for Chelsea’s Premier League 2 side in a 3-0 defeat in a bid to improve his match fitness.
Ampadu has remained in first-team training under Tuchel.
The Exeter youth product has participated in a number of loans during his Blues career, having temporarily moved to RB Leipzig, Sheffield United and Venezia.
Ahead of his return to Chelsea, Ampadu had made it clear that playing football was a priority for him.
An understandable notion as he looks to earn his place in Wales‘ starting XI for only their second World Cup campaign ever.
“That’s a conversation I’ll have with Ethan,” said Page, “Ethan has proved in the last two to three years he’s not afraid to go and play games.”
“He’s done it in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and he’s gone over to Italy to play. He was back in the Chelsea squad on the weekend, so perhaps they have seen that he’s going to add value to the squad. He’s had a pre-season to help him, and it’s great if he’s playing and a part of it. But if he’s not, then that’s something he might have to address. I will touch base with him and see how he’s doing.”
A number of sides have been linked with making a move for Ampadu already this summer.
With Chelsea seemingly awaiting another defensive addition in Wesley Fofana, which would push the Welshman further down the pecking order.
A resolution is expected in the next nine days for Ampadu, with a loan perhaps once again likely amid interest from clubs in England, Italy and Spain.