Farke joy as Leeds Utd near superb Chelsea coup for star with a serious point to prove

Leeds Utd are closing in on the permanent acquisition of a Chelsea star who’ll have a serious point to prove at Elland Road, per a report.

The bulk of deals at Leeds Utd thus far this summer have revolved around exits. Indeed, recognised first-team stars including Rasmus Kristensen, Diego Llorente, Robin Koch, Brenden Aaronson and Rodrigo have all made way either in loan or permanent exits.

Everton tried to add another name to that list when bidding £15m for Wilfried Gnonto. However the Whites deem Gnonto untouchable and wasted no time rejecting Everton’s bid.

In any case, a fresh update from the Athletic has finally brought news of a high profile addition.

Their Leeds expert, Phil Hay, revealed the west Yorkshire outfit are closing in on a deal to sign Chelsea’s Ethan Ampadu.

Despite being just 22 years of age, Ampadu is vastly experienced at both club and country level.

Indeed, four fruitful loan spells away from Stamford Bridge have helped Ampadu to rack up 125 senior appearances for various clubs. For Wales, Ampadu has already received 44 caps.

Ampadu’s primary position is centre-half, though he’s equally adept at operating as a holding midfielder. His versatility has been on show during his loan spells with RB Leipzig, Sheffield Utd, Venezia and Spezia.

But according to the Athletic, the time has finally come for Ampadu to put his roots down and leave Chelsea outright. On the back of so many loan spells, Ampadu will be champing at the bit to prove his worth.

Hay added Leeds are currently in talks with Chelsea over the move which is expected to get the greenlight.

Fabrizio Romano subsequently added his take, revealing the fee involved is £7m prior to add-ons. The transfer guru confirmed an agreement on personal terms has been struck.

Chelsea are primed to insert a sell-on clause into the deal, though there will not be a buy-back clause included.

Elsewhere, Marc Roca has completed a season-long loan to LaLiga side Real Betis.

The deal was confirmed by Leeds Utd on Tuesday morning, while reports in Spain suggest there’s an option to buy in the terms.

READ MORE: Man Utd raid coming after Leeds Utd laugh off £15m Everton bid for untouchable star