Chelsea’s young talent, Lewis Hall, has signed a six-year contract with the club, which includes the possibility of extending for an additional year, as reported by Standard Sport.
Having progressed through Chelsea’s youth ranks, Hall made his senior team debut last season. The 18-year-old recently committed to the new contract before embarking on a loan move to Crystal Palace for the upcoming season.
The close relationship between the Eagle’s manager Roy Hodgson and Chelsea’s Mauricio Pochettino played a crucial role in facilitating the transfer of young English talent to Palace.
However, Hall won’t be eligible to make his debut for his loan club during their Premier League opener against Sheffield United on Saturday.
Despite initially emerging as a left-back when breaking into the first team, the youngster will reportedly operate in his natural midfield position.
Must Read: Liverpool could pip Chelsea to signing Brighton star Moises Caicedo
Hall’s introduction to Chelsea’s senior team was necessitated by injuries to regular left-backs Ben Chilwell and Marc Cucurella.
Despite his young age, the talented midfielder displayed remarkable composure on the field. He exhibited a notable level of confidence when facing formidable opponents like Manchester United and Manchester City, revealing a maturity that exceeded his years.
Hall managed to craft five significant goal-scoring opportunities across 11 appearances, a feat that led him to clinch the Chelsea Academy Player of the Year Award.
However, the upcoming season could present a challenge for the English player as he aims to establish himself within Chelsea’s senior team.
The addition of Marc Cucurella the previous summer failed to yield the desired results, and as a result, the club faced difficulties in finding a new club for him.
Also Read: Chelsea goalkeeper Gaga Slonina joins KAS Eupen on loan deal
Cucurella’s performance hasn’t shown improvement during pre-season, and there’s a lack of interest from potential suitors.
Furthermore, the competition has intensified with Ian Maatsen’s return from a successful loan period at Burnley, while newly-appointed assistant captain Ben Chilwell remains a consistent presence.
Considering the Blue’s already well-stocked midfield and their ongoing pursuit of two additional defensive midfielders, it appears logical for Hall to go out on loan.
Also Read: Leicester City agree loan deal to sign Chelsea prodigy Cesare Casadei
During his loan tenure, he will aim to make a strong impression, positioning himself for a return to Chelsea’s ranks after a promising debut season in senior football.
