Ethan Ampadu's season-long loan move to Sheffield United has been confirmed.
Chelsea VAVEL has decided to look at whether the youngster is a good fit for Chris Wilder's side.
Versatility is key
Adept at playing both in midfield and defence Ampadu exudes confidence on the ball, whilst his versatility makes him an asset to any team.
Sheffield United like to contribute men forward when they win the ball and require a steady influence to ensure they can retain possession and transition play quickly.
Oliver Norwood provides this from the centre of midfield and whilst he is seen as an integral part of the team Ampadu profiles very similarly. Whilst the Welshman can play at centre-back many concerned with Ampadu's development see his future in midfield.
Battling for minutes
Wilder made very few additions to his squad last season so as not to disrupt the balance of his meticulous tactical setup. With that in mind, it would be hard to envisage Ampadu getting the minutes he desires.
But, in accordance with the wishes of Wales manager Ryan Giggs, Ampadu has seemingly only left Chelsea on the pretence that he will be given more minutes elsewhere. It is therefore likely that such conditions were discussed before Ampadu's loan was finalised.
The average age of Sheffield United's squad last season was 27.5 years of age and ranked them 16th out of the 20 teams in the Premier League.
This would again suggest that Ampadu may not be trusted in Wilder's system. But, with the arrivals of youngsters Max Lowe, Jayden Bogle and Oliver Burke this week, there is seems to be a clear shift in direction at the club.
With youth being at the forefront of Wilder's plans to regenerate the side, Ampadu may be given an opportunity after all.
Ampadu failed to make the impact he would've wanted on loan at RB Leipzig last season and he will view his move to Sheffield United as a crucial juncture in his fledgeling career.
Wilder appears to be looking to promote youth and Ampadu certainly fits his system, but only time will tell if he can make the step up.
