These stories are samples pulled from external media sources. They do not represent the views or position of Chelsea Football Club.

Hudson-Odoi reportedly close to new contract

According to the Daily Mail, Callum Hudson-Odoi is in advanced talks on a new Chelsea contract and could commit to a new long-term deal with the club.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7261817/Callum-Hudson-Odoi-sign-Chelsea-contract-worth-100-000-week.html

Hudson-Odoi, who enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the Blues last year when he played 24 games and scored five goals, could be set to follow Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Mason Mount who recently signed five-year extensions.

According to the paper, the appointment of Frank Lampard as the club’s new head coach played a big role in convincing the teenager to stay in London.

‘The 18-year-old England international was wanted by Bayern Munich, but he looks to have been swayed by the return of Lampard to Stamford Bridge and ready to commit himself to his boyhood club,’ states the report.

‘The aloofness of former manager Maurizio Sarri and his unwillingness to use Hudson-Odoi meant the players' representatives were unhappy with his development and game time.

‘With Lampard returning, along with his former Under 18 Chelsea manager, Jody Morris, Hudson-Odoi's fears have been allayed and he seems set to be central to Chelsea's starting eleven this season.’

Hudson-Odoi is currently sidelined after undergoing surgery for an Achilles injury he suffered late last season but his recovery appears to be going well and he is expected to be fit for the start of the new campaign.

Ampadu linked with Leipzig move

The Sun reports German club RB Leipzig have emerged as favourites to sign Ethan Ampadu on a season-long loan.

There has been plenty of speculation about where the Welsh teenager will be playing in the 2019/20 season since Blues head coach Frank Lampard revealed he had been left out the pre-season trip to Japan in order to work on a loan deal.

Aston Villa and Reading have been mentioned as possible destinations for the 18-year-old, but Leipzig, who finished third in the German Bundesliga last season, are being tipped as the new front-runners.

‘The German club are looking at offering the teenager regular football next season in the Bundesliga and a chance in the Champions League,’ states the Sun’s report.

‘Leipzig boss Julian Nagelsmann is looking to bolster his squad after qualifying for Europe's top competition. And Ampadu can give him options at centre-back and defensive-midfield.

‘The German club see him as a bright British star of the future and have also targeted the likes of Ademola Lookman at Everton.’

Mikel quits international football

Former Chelsea midfielder John Mikel has announced on Instagram he is retiring from international football following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 32-year-old, who recently joined Turkish club Trabzonspor, decided to call time on his international career after playing in only two matches for his country during the tournament.

‘Egypt is a country where I’ve started and have finished my National career. In 2006 I played my first official championship for my Country. 2019 African Cup of Nations marks my last championship for National Team with Super Eagles,’ said Mikel in his post.

‘My national career started in 2003 under 17 World Cup and I’m grateful for the national team for placing me on the world arena and giving me an opportunity to show my skill and have an incredible National and International career.

‘At the age of 32 it’s time for me to retire from the National team and let the youth take over, who’ve done an amazing job securing a bronze medal at AFCON 2019.

‘Thank you to all my Nigerian supporters and to my Country for all the trust, support and love you’ve shown me over the past 15 years.

‘Mikel am out!’