Ethan Ampadu’s journey back to Chelsea in 2023 ended with a decision that set his career on a new path, as Leeds United stepped in to sign him permanently.
The Welsh international, who had already made 12 senior appearances for Chelsea, had spent time on loan at RB Leipzig, Sheffield United, Verona, and Spezia. Following consecutive relegations in Serie A, he returned to London facing an uncertain future.
There were three paths open to him: fight for a place at Stamford Bridge, head out on another loan, or look for a permanent exit. In the end, it was the latter that happened.
Ampadu joined Leeds in 2023 for around £7m and was Daniel Farke’s first signing. Since then, he has become one of the most popular players among supporters.
Why Ethan Ampadu decided to swap Chelsea for Leeds
Two years on from leaving Chelsea, Ampadu now captains a Premier League side and has proven to be an absolute bargain. He has become a crucial part of the team, operating from midfield and embodying everything good about this Leeds side.
On the Leeds podcast, Ampadu spoke about his loan experiences and his subsequent transfer to Elland Road.
He also weighed in on his relationship with Carlo Cudicini, and why he ultimately chose to make the switch.
The 25-year-old said: “The team would speak to Chelsea first. I was close with Carlo Cudicini. He was in the loan department at Chelsea, I always felt like I could have stayed and been a fourth-choice midfielder. But you never know what could happen with that. For my development, it was better to play.
“I was never really fazed or bothered if it was abroad, the lifestyle, culture. Languages, I wish I did better. I did Covid in Germany. It wasn’t just Chelsea pushing; it was an open conversation over what was best.”
Ampadu added: “Before I joined, I heard how big Leeds were but I never really understood it. It would be weird for me to say, because of how big Leeds are, because I didn’t really understand it.
“The project they had, the boss told me where I could improve. It felt right, it felt like it fit after speaking to him. It might not have worked out three years down the line but I like to think it has. It feels like home.”
Ethan Ampadu’s future: Does Chelsea hold a buyback clause?
When Ampadu made the switch to Leeds, Mauricio Pochettino had already decided he was not part of Chelsea’s plans.
Todd Boehly’s first year in charge saw more than £600 million spent on new signings, leaving the squad overloaded with players.
Moving him on seemed the obvious choice, and there has not been any talk since about a buyback clause being included in his deal at Leeds. Even if one existed, it is likely no longer active.
But there is thought to be a sell-on clause in place, similar to the one Exeter City benefited from when Chelsea first brought Ampadu in. These clauses typically range between 15 and 25%.
If Leeds ever do decide to cash in on him – which seems unlikely given his importance – Chelsea would be entitled to a share of any profit the club makes from the sale.
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