Ethan Ampadu was a key part of Leeds United’s side last season as The Whites came within a whisker of an immediate return to the Premier League but next season, he could have a completely new look.
The 23-year-old was Daniel Farke’s first signing at Elland Road last summer and he initially sparkled in central midfield under the German manager, before reverting to the middle of the defence due to injuries.
With Pascal Struijk and Liam Cooper on the sidelines, Ampadu partnered Joe Rodon at the back and the duo starred together. Especially, before the March international break as Leeds pushed for promotion.
Ampadu clocked up a quite remarkable 62 appearances for club and country during 2023-24, starting all 49 Championship games including the play-offs for Leeds as well as playing eight time for his country.
Ethan Ampadu sports new look ahead of Leeds pre-season return
He captained Leeds during the second half of the season and was more than deserving of his place in the Championship Team of the Season alongside Leeds stars Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter.
Wales star Ampadu rounded off an exceptional season without promotion, but with the Wales armband as he captained his country during a 4-0 defeat to Slovakia earlier this month ahead of Euro 2024.
Enjoying some much-deserved down time ahead of a return to training at Leeds, Ampadu was chilling alongside Wales star Neco Williams on a boat – who posted his new blonde-haired look on Instagram.
Leeds were linked with signing Williams only in January
Ampadu is close to Nottingham Forest and Wales defender Williams who is renowned for his attacking play and intensity from either side of the defence or wing-back, after coming through at Liverpool.
Williams is a player that has been linked with a move to Leeds, even as recently as January. Phil Hay said Leeds really wanted to land the former Liverpool man but Forest were unwilling to sell the £16m man.
Leeds still need a right-back with Connor Roberts and Luke Ayling departing, and Archie Gray likely to be moved into midfield. Maybe agent Ampadu could convince Williams of a move to Elland Road…
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