Leeds United are close to securing Ethan Ampadu’s long-term future and it feels like this is one of the smartest decisions the club could make after confirming his stay in the Premier League.
The Welshman’s contract already runs until 2027, but Leeds do not want the situation to turn towards the final year of his contract, reports Football Insider.
Negotiations are expected to accelerate now that Leeds have secured a place in next season’s Premier League.
Football Insider report that the club are relaxed about the situation and expect Ampadu to sign new terms, with the player also thought to be happy at Elland Road.
Ethan Ampadu has become a pillar of Leeds United
Ampadu became more than just a midfielder for Leeds.
Since joining from Chelsea in 2023, he has developed into one of the club’s most important players and the rightful leader of Daniel Farke’s side.
He brought his influence to the Premier League, captaining Leeds during their promotion-winning Championship campaign.
That leadership is important. Newly promoted clubs often struggle due to a lack of players who can withstand the weekly pressure.
Ampadu was different. He played with maturity, aggression and composure, giving Leeds a strong foundation in midfield.
This season he has played more minutes in the Premier League than any other Leeds player, which shows he is a key figure in Leeds’ survival.
Chelsea were criticized for letting Ampadu go
There’s also a bit of irony in his rise. Chelsea sold him to Leeds in 2023 for around £7m after many years on loan and limited first-team appearances.
Since then, his reputation has been completely rebuilt. Gary Lineker and Micah Richards were among those to question Chelsea’s decision earlier this year, pointing out how great a player Ampadu has become since leaving Stamford Bridge.
It is important for Leeds to tie him down before the summer season begins in earnest.
Surviving means their finances improve, but it also means other clubs start taking notice of their best players.
Ampadu’s name has already been mentioned in widespread transfer discussions, including Tim Sherwood’s controversial suggestion that Manchester United should consider Ampadu as part of their midfield rebuild.
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