Chelsea's use of their younger players has been crucial over the past few years, with Thomas Tuchel looking to get the best out of his squad and academy options when possible. The likes of Reece James, Mason Mount and Trevoh Chalobah have all become first-team options, becoming key players to the German coach.
Look no further than the faith put in James, as football.london understands Chelsea have offered a new deal to the England international that he is expected to sign. The move to extend the 22-year-old's deal shows the long-term plan surrounding him - especially since his current contract doesn't expire until 2025.
However, while there is a desire to continue bringing through youth talent, not all have been able to hold a place in the first-team. Billy Gilmour made his switch to Brighton permanent, while the likes of Levi Colwill, Harvey Vale and Xavier Simons made loan moves elsewhere for consistent football.
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Another who has joined them as part of the loan army is Ethan Ampadu, with the versatile player looking to earn consistent appearances in the build-up to a World Cup campaign with Wales later this year. The 21-year-old made a switch to Spezia in Serie A, where he will spend the season with the potential for a permanent move.
In making that move though, there appears to be a clear request from Thomas Tuchel about his time with the club. Spezia manager Luca Gotti said: "Chelsea asked me to play Ethan Ampadu as centre-back. They asked for it as they see Ampadu returning there in one year and play as centre-back in the future."
It's clear that the Blues eye a move to play the Wales international in that role and given his versatility and age, he could be a key player on his return. It could save the club millions in transfer fees, rather than signing someone from elsewhere.
It also replicates a similar move with Chalobah, who had previously spent loan spells with Ipswich Town and Huddersfield Town in the Championship playing as a midfielder, before joining FC Lorient and playing in a back three as a centre-back. The next season, he was playing there for Chelsea, showing the route of progression that Ampadu could follow.
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