Ethan Ampadu has thrown a spanner in the works ahead of next season following his impressive display against Atalanta. The 21-year-old, who is on loan at Serie A outfit Venezia this season, marshalled the midfield despite suffering a 3-1 loss.
The Chelsea loanee's performance against La Dea typified his misfortunes with the Italian side. Ampadu's featured 26 times for Venezia and has operated across various positions, though he has excelled when anchoring the midfield.
Despite his sparkling form, the Blues have decided to sell the Wales international ahead of the summer transfer window, according to TEAMtalk. The report claims that Norwich City are interested in securing Ampadu's signature, with Championship sides Swansea City, Bournemouth, Middlesbrough and Huddersfield Town keen too.
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But, after a formidable showing against Atalanta, who are co-owned by Steve Pagliuca, Ampadu could have done enough to secure a future at Stamford Bridge if the budding bidder of the west London side proves successful. At the heart of Venezia's midfield, the Welshman won more ground and aerial duels than any other player on the pitch.
Ampadu, who sees his current contract with Chelsea expire in June 2024, rounded off his all-encompassing modern number six display with six clearances, six interceptions, and ten recoveries, all without being dribbled past. His dominant display should turn heads as he continues to go under the radar.
Following the youngster's display against Atalanta, Ampadu's chances of securing a future under Thomas Tuchel could teeter on whether Pagliuca's bid is successful. Though it could be a race against time as a bidder will be eliminated before a final decision is made, according to the MailOnline.
Consortiums led by Todd Boehly, Sir Martin Broughton and Pagliuca all remain in contention, with a final decision previously expected at the start of this week. It is expected that the latter is whom will be eliminated from proceedings, potentially hampering Ampadu's chances of finally cementing a first-team role in west London.
The MailOnline add that despite Pagliuca being endorsed by Chelsea legend John Terry, his bid is deemed to 'not offer anything new' compared to Boehly and Broughton's bids. Therefore, if the Atalanta co-owners bid is unsuccessful, the £13.5m-rated jack-of-all-trades — as valued by Transfermarkt — could lose a foot in the door at Cobham.
