According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are set to open talks with Tyler Adams and his representatives “in the next days”. The Leeds United star has been injured for an extended period of time, with the Whites signing Ethan Ampadu in recent weeks to play in the same position as the USMNT captain. Aston Villa are reportedly also interested in securing his services.
Leeds United’s Tyler Adams Likely to Open Chelsea Talks
Why Leeds United Need Tyler Adams
One of the main reasons the Elland Road outfit will look to hold onto Adams is the impact that he has in the dressing room. Seventeen-year-old Archie Gray made his debut against Cardiff City in the Championship opener, and whilst his American teammate was unable to play, he was seen offering the youngster advice at both half-time and on the final whistle. Strong leaders are essential for a club seeking promotion, and Adams has clearly demonstrated that as a fundamental part of his skillset.
This leadership is likely to become more and more important in the coming weeks. Liam Cooper is out with an unknown injury after scoring a bullet header in the second half of the fixture against Cardiff. With the USMNT captain returning to training shortly, there was potential for him to fill both the defensive and leadership shortfall left by the Scotsman’s absence.
Watch: Leeds United vs Cardiff Post-Match Discussion
Chelsea Eye Up Tyler Adams Leeds United Release Clause
Relegation has caused myriad issues for the Whites already with a raft of players leaving the club on loan, including three central defenders and Rasmus Kristensen. Another release clause is set to shake Thorp Arch, with Adams reportedly having a release clause for a £20 million fee. Such a release clause is slightly more than the club bought him for last summer, although retaining the midfielder would likely be more of a benefit to the Elland Road faithful.
In spite of the potential drawbacks of a sale, and the fact the Whites are unable to negotiate a higher fee, there are some clear benefits to this. The EFL’s finance rules are much stricter than those in the Premier League, and with large wages on the books a fee such as this for Adams would likely lead to more incomings. Leeds are still clearly missing depth in several positions, fielding four wingers at the top against Cardiff due to the lack of a fit number nine or any number ten at all. The Adams windfall could be a very helpful fund to use.
Read More: Leeds United Injuries Cause Selection Issues
Why Chelsea Need Tyler Adams
The USMNT captain adds a lot to a midfield, primarily working to bring more stability to his sides. His tackling, interception and block numbers are amongst Europe’s elite, and if Adams were to be uninjured throughout last season it is likely that Leeds United would still be playing Premier League football this season. Defensive structure in midfield is something that the Blues are sorely lacking, and adding the Leeds United stalwart would bring more defensive capabilities in the middle of the pitch, reduce the danger of opponent counter-attacks and also improve the club’s brand in the US.
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Main image credit courtesy of author Joe Blackburn and licensed to Last Word on Football.
