The 17-year-old has been part of the Chelsea Academy since the Under-15s level, after he joined the club from West Bromwich Albion.

‘We are very happy Leo has signed his first professional contract and committed to Chelsea for the long term,’ said Jim Fraser, head of youth development and recruitment.

‘He has had a difficult time with injury but is working hard every day with the medical team on his rehabilitation. We look forward to seeing him back on the pitch as soon as possible.’

A highly technical player, Cardoso has featured predominantly on the right wing or as an attacking midfielder for our Academy sides. 

He has represented both Portugal and England at schoolboy level, his most recent international involvement being with the Portugal Under-17s.

Despite a period sidelined by injury, Cardoso broke into the Chelsea Under-18s set-up last season, before becoming a full-time scholar for 2023/24.