Championship side Reading are interested in signing Chelsea utility man Ethan Ampadu on loan, journalist Courtney Friday has reported.

Ampadu, who can play as either a holding midfielder or a centre back, was snapped up by Chelsea two years ago at the age of just 16, after breaking through the ranks at League Two Exeter City, during which time he became the Grecians youngest ever player.

Since his move to Stamford Bridge, Ampadu has made just 12 appearances in two seasons, although hasn't stopped him from earning eight caps from the Welsh national team in that time.

It now seems that Reading are interested in giving Ampadu the chance of more regular football next season with a temporary move to the Madejski Stadium, with the club keen on a season-long loan deal for the utility man.

Already it appears as though they may have a strong chance of making that happen, with newly appointed Chelsea boss Frank Lampard confirming that the 18-year-old will be loaned out this season.

So far Reading have made just one signing in the summer transfer window, with goalkeeper Joao Virginia joining on a season-long loan from another Premier League side in the form of Everton.

The Verdict

I can see this being a good signing for Reading.

You don't get signed up for Chelsea and then capped eight times by the Welsh senior side by the age of 18 if you don't have a huge amount of potential and ability, so you feel Ampadu would be more than capable of competing in the Championship for the Royals.

That Ampadu can play in both midfield and defence could further increase his importance to Reading next season should he move to the Madejski. Bringing in someone with that versatility means they would have a number of positions covered should injuries and suspensions take effect at any point throughout the season, as they often do.

With chances at Chelsea seemingly limited for now, you imagine Ampadu himself would be open to a move to Reading, giving him the chance to play regular football, and prove to Lampard and co. that he is ready for a regular place in the Chelsea side when he returns to Stamford Bridge in 12 months time.