Sources: Leeds make Ethan Ampadu transfer decision amid Chelsea whispers
Leeds United have no plans to lose Ethan Ampadu any time soon despite links with a move to Chelsea, sources have told Football Insider.
The 26-year-old has been a crucial player at Elland Road since his move from Stamford Bridge in 2023, and recent displays have seem him tipped for a return to West London.
The Blues are believed to have been impressed by his performances, but he remains an important part of Daniel Farke's ambitious plans for the future at Leeds.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Leeds will not entertain offers for Ampadu and are aiming to deter interest from rival clubs.
The Wales international has impressed a number of clubs with his displays under Farke, but Leeds are reluctant to see him leave Elland Road at any time in the near future.
Chelsea are considered unlikely to make a move for Ampadu in the near future, but given the whispers and increasing speculation, Leeds are standing firm over their stance.
Could Chelsea make a move for Ethan Ampadu?
Football Insider revealed on 25 September that Chelsea are unlikely to pursue a move to sign Ampadu in 2027 despite the speculation growing on social media.
The midfielder recently put pen to paper on a new contract at Elland Road to extend his stay until 2030, and there is no interest in a move away from Leeds as things stand.
Instead, Chelsea are likely to assess alternative targets, while Leeds have been clear to any other potential suitors that Ampadu will not be for sale any time soon.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "It's probably wishful thinking from the Chelsea side of things that they could bring Ethan Ampadu back to the club.
"He's a key man at Leeds, so I don't think Leeds will be even thinking of letting Ampadu go at any stage in the near future.
"He's club captain, he's one of the first names on the team sheet for Daniel Farke and he's become a big fan's favourite at Elland Road as well.
"And look, he only recently he signed a new contract to extend his stay in Yorkshire until 2030, so Leeds are not planning on losing Ethan Ampadu any time soon.
"I don't think the club would consider letting him go either so yeah I don't think anything is in that stuff that maybe Chelsea could bring him back."
What do Leeds have planned for Ampadu?
Despite the speculation about a move away, Ampadu will remain a key part of Leeds' plans for the future and is already playing a crucial role in their early-season success.
The Whites are unbeaten after five Premier League games so far and will be aiming to continue their strong form following the international break.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider in June that Leeds believe they are capable of challenging for Europe, with Ampadu at the heart of their success.
Farke has put ambitious plans in place at Elland Road, and was clear about those lofty targets ahead of the summer window as he called for backing from the board.
Keeping Ampadu at the club would be a major show of intent given his recent performances, and his future is likely to be key to any long-term plans Leeds have.