Ampadu moves to Chelsea

PREMIER League champions Chelsea have snapped up Welsh teen wonder Ethan Ampadu.

The 16-year-old, who with Liverpool’s Ben Woodburn is widely viewed as the best Welsh player of his age-group, has put pen to paper on a deal with Antonio Conte’s side.

Chelsea won a tug-of-war for Ampadu’s signature, with the youngster’s club Exeter City confirming other Premier League big guns also wanted him.

The fee Chelsea have to pay will be determined by a tribunal, but it will amount to a compensation payment as Ampadu, who didn’t sign scholarship forms with Exeter, was free to talk to other clubs.

Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale, said: “He had many options available to him and has decided that Chelsea provides him with the best opportunity to develop the next step of his career. We wish him the very best of luck.

“Ethan has shown real maturity and professionalism throughout last season, balancing his school work with his training at Exeter City.

“At the same time, he has represented Wales at different age groups. We thank him for his contribution on the pitch and feel very proud of what he has become.

“Our academy should again be mentioned for the excellent work it does in not only nurturing talented footballers, but also well-rounded individuals.”

Ampadu broke an 83-year-old club record when he became Exeter’s youngest player, appearing in the League Cup against Championship Brentford aged just 15 years, 10 months and 26 days.

He captained Wales at under16 and under-17 level and helped the side achieve historic wins over France and England, before being chosen by Chris Coleman to train with the senior squad ahead of Euro 2016.

Ampadu was named Wales’ young player of the year and has played central midfield, as well as sweeper.