Leeds United have completed the signing of defender Ethan Ampadu on a four-year deal from Chelsea.
The Championship club will pay £7million ($9.1m), plus £3m in add-ons, in a permanent deal for the 22-year-old. His contract also has the option for a further year.
“I think as a club, the history doesn’t have to be sold,” Ampadu told LUTV after signing.
“Everyone knows how big of a club Leeds United is. Obviously, we are now in the position we are, but we all want more.
“When I spoke with the boss (Daniel Farke), as soon as I got off the phone call I knew what I wanted, he really impressed me. He told me what he liked about me and where he thinks I can improve as a player.
“That all helped me choose Leeds United.”
Ampadu has had four loan spells from Chelsea since joining the club from Exeter in 2017. He spent last season at Spezia — making 31 Serie A appearances for the relegated side — after previous temporary spells with RB Leipzig, Sheffield United and Venezia.
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But the Wales international leaves Stamford Bridge on a permanent basis after making just 12 senior appearances for Chelsea.
Ampadu has spent much of his career alternating between playing at centre-back and as a defensive midfielder. On his versatility, he added: “For me, I am comfortable playing in both positions.
“I know I have to improve in both, so wherever the boss needs me I am happy to play, but I am comfortable in both.“I’m just raring to go now.”
Leeds are undergoing a summer reshuffle under new manager Farke following their relegation to the Championship last season.
USMNT international Brenden Aaronson has made a loan move to Union Berlin, Diego Llorente has re-joined Roma for the 2023-24 campaign, and will be joined on loan by Rasmus Kristensen, Robin Koch has temporarily signed for Eintracht Frankfurt and Marc Roca has sealed a loan switch to Real Betis.
Forward Rodrigo, meanwhile, has completed a permanent transfer to Qatari side Al Rayyan.
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(Photo: Leeds United)
