Chelsea fans could take this one of two ways…
Chelsea are a club that aren’t afraid to splash the cash when they feel the need to. However, they are also known to be a nightmare when it comes to nurturing younger players. That’s why it came as a surprise to see Callum Hudson-Odoi become a first-team regular towards the end of last season.
The 18-year-old does not look out of place either. Until he suffered the unfortunate injury last season, he looked like one of Chelsea’s better players. He is a skilful young player who is very intelligent on the ball. This is a rare trait for young wingers since most jeopardise their careers by being too selfish or searching for the sensational.
Anyway, Chelsea could soon reward Callum Hudson-Odoi for his efforts. The Daily Mail has reported that Frank Lampard and company are keen to offer the teenager a massive contract upgrade. Should he accept, he will be receiving £180,000 per week which could rise to £200,000 with bonuses.
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This is ridiculous money for a player of his age. In fact, if he signs the deal then he will become the highest-paid teenager in the Premier League. However, you can’t deny he warrants the title.
Chelsea didn’t have the capacity to replace Eden Hazard in the summer, given they had to serve a transfer ban. However, their search could easily become internal as Hudson-Odoi makes his comeback from a lengthy spell out of action.
Chelsea won the Europa League last season under Maurizio Sarri and Hudson-Odoi was largely responsible for their success. Although he missed the final, he made four starts in the competition (coming off the bench five times), scoring four goals and providing two assists.
He is a natural winger and one which can fill the void left by Hazard given time. If Frank Lampard can nurture him properly, then there’s no reason why we couldn’t be talking about a future PFA young player of the year.
Do you think Callum Hudson-Odoi should commit his long-term future with Chelsea?