Chelsea have reached an agreement with Aston Villa to sign the highly-rated attacking midfielder Omari Kellyman for a fee of £19 million according to The Telegraph. The 18-year-old prodigy, who made his Premier League debut last season, is set to join the Blues on a six-year contract with an option for an additional 12 months.
Kellyman's versatility and potential have drawn comparisons to Chelsea's Kai Havertz, as the England Under-19 international is capable of playing in various attacking positions, including as a number 10, on the flanks, or as a false nine.
The teenage sensation can operate as an attacking midfielder and has the potential to serve as a backup striker to Chelsea's new signing, Nicolas Jackson.
The youngster will join Chelsea's first-team squad for pre-season training but could be loaned out for the upcoming campaign to gain valuable senior experience. The signing of Kellyman is part of a larger strategy employed by both Chelsea and Aston Villa to navigate the current "illiquid market."
The clubs have agreed to facilitate player exchanges in separate deals, with Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen set to complete a £37.5 million move to Villa Park in the coming days.
While Chelsea's interest in Villa striker Jhon Duran remains, the club is carefully considering alternative targets, such as Hoffenheim's Maximilian Beier and Lille's Jonathan David. However, the acquisition of Kellyman is seen as a significant coup for the Blues, who believe they have secured one of the country's most exciting young talents.
Kellyman's journey to the top began when he joined Villa from Derby County in 2021. His impressive performances in the youth ranks caught the attention of the first-team management, and he was rewarded with his Premier League debut against Manchester City in April. The young star's ability to adapt to various attacking roles and his keen eye for goal have made him a sought-after prospect in the transfer market.
As the Blues prepare for the upcoming season under new head coach Enzo Maresca, fans will be eager to see how Kellyman and other young prospects develop and contribute to the team's success.
With Kellyman's arrival at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have once again demonstrated their ability to attract and secure some of the most promising young players in the world. The club's reputation for developing talent and providing opportunities for growth has made them an attractive destination for aspiring footballers.
With his undeniable talent and potential, the young midfielder has the opportunity to become a key player for Chelsea in the years to come and make a lasting impact on the Premier League.