In a recent report, The Daily Express revealed that Newcastle United are keen on a loan move for Chelsea defender Ethan Ampadu this summer. It is believed that the Magpies are eyeing a late move to secure the services of the Wales international on loan in this transfer window.
Ampadu’s Recent Loan Spell At Sheffield United
Ampadu had an impressive loan spell at Sheffield United as he put in a series of solid performances at the heart of their defence. The 20-year-old featured in 29 matches for the Blades in the previous campaign, picking up four yellow cards in the process across all fronts.
The Exeter-born deserves a lot of credit for averaging 2.3 tackles, 2.0 interceptions, 3.3 clearances and 0.5 dribbles per game in the 2020-21 Premier League season. He also distributed the ball with conviction after completing 82.3% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Ampadu has established himself as one of the most promising young players in Welsh football, so Newcastle boss Steve Bruce would be wise to seal a season-long loan move for him before the transfer window slams shut later this month.
What Will The Wales International Add To Steve Bruce’s Side?
Ampadu can be a decent defender at the back when he is playing regularly on the field. He is a solid tackler of the ball and can make some crucial interceptions on the defensive end of the pitch. The 26-time Wales international also doesn’t take too many risks when putting his foot through the ball to clear the danger.
The former Bundesliga is primarily a centre-back but can also operate as a deep-lying, holding midfielder if required. He enjoys playing his way out from the back but is prone to making mistakes inside his half as he is still quite a raw talent.
Ampadu has the potential to become a future star at the highest level, so it is no surprise that Chelsea are trying to give him some valuable top-flight experience by loaning him out again this summer. Newcastle can use someone of the Welshman’s skillset as they look to strengthen their defence even further for the rest of this campaign.
If Ampadu’s performances at Bramall Lane last season is anything to by, we can expect him to add more bite and steel to Bruce’s defensive department as long as the Magpies head coach is willing to offer him regular playing minutes at St. James’ Park over the next 12 months.
