Tyler Adams is keen on a move from Leeds United amid interest from Chelsea, according to the Mail on Sunday.
The newspaper reported via their print edition (6 August, pg 99) that the London club are ready to activate the 24-year-old’s £20million relegation release clause to take Adams away from Elland Road.
Adams’ decision comes just hours before Leeds’ Championship opener against Cardiff City, but the American looks set to go back up to the Premier League.
While Leeds fans will be naturally disappointed that Adams is likely to depart, it felt inevitable once relegation was confirmed.
Since the emergence of his release clause, it felt like only a matter of time before big clubs would come sniffing for the American’s signature.
Daniel Farke will want to know his complete squad as soon as possible, so getting Adams out of the club, especially if he is keen on a move, is vital for Leeds so they know what players are at their disposal ahead of a tough Championship campaign.
Following a significant clearout at Chelsea, Adams could see himself earning minutes under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, and the £20million fee would be too tempting for the Blues considering his age, quality, and Premier League experience.
Adams has plenty of admirers in the Premier League, including Everton and Aston Villa, but Chelsea look the most likely to secure his services.
Despite not recording any goals or assists in his last Premier League campaign, Adams has proven he is an adept and strong defensive midfield presence. The USMNT man can boast 3.72 tackles per 90 (99th percentile) and 2.00 blocks per 90 (97th percentile) [FBRef], so it is clear why Chelsea would be interested.
Leeds get their Championship campaign underway at home to Cardiff City which may be their final chance to see Adams don the Leeds United shirt before a move.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are one of many Championship sides looking at a loan move for a Manchester United forward.
