The Welsh international, who joined for an estimated £7 million from Chelsea following several loan stints away from Stamford Bridge, was Daniel Farke’s first acquisition at Elland Road. He has made an impression on the team thus far this season.
Ampadu, 23, is one of the season’s best acquisitions, according to Savage, who has seen the 23-year-old start all 12 of the Whites’ Championship games while playing holding midfielder slightly ahead of the defence.
In an interview with TEAMTalk on October 25, he declared, “I am a big fan of Ethan Ampadu. He’s been out on loan a few times, but he’s now officially joining Leeds. I believe that, considering the amount they spent (£7 million is the amount mentioned), Leeds United got a great deal on one of the season’s best buys.
“Daniel Farke’s preferred style of play is ideal for maximising his potential. I understand that he fills a defensive midfield role, and with players like Glen Kamara and Archie Grey to support him, their midfield synergy propels them ahead.
However, Ethan Ampadu will gain from playing football on a regular basis, as will Wales and Leeds United above all. You have to admit that, at £7 million, he is now one of the best deals of the season.
Savage’s assessment that Ampadu’s signing was nothing less than a “absolute bargain” is difficult to disagree with given that the Welsh international is clearly improving under Farke’s direction at Elland Road.
Few would have predicted him to adjust to life in the Championship with such relative ease, despite the fact that many anticipated him to arrive and be a defensively astute player. He has since proven to be crucial to Leeds United’s fantastic start to the season.
