Former Chelsea youth player Ashley Akpan is said to be training with Sky Bet League One side Sunderland ahead of potentially becoming Lee Johnson's first signing since taking charge of the Black Cats, according to All Nigeria Soccer. 

A Poland youth international, Akpan has been a free agent since being released by the West London side earlier in the year after failing to make the grade needed to secure another scholarship at Stamford Bridge.

It is said the defender appeared for Sunderland's under-18s in a 5-0 loss to Manchester City, playing around about an hour before being substituted.

Originally born in Warsaw, the 16-year-old can play in various roles across the back four, whilst also being equally adept at slotting into midfield.

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He is also eligible to represent Nigeria because of his father's heritage, whilst he also qualifies for England due to playing in the country for a number of years.

The Verdict 

This would be a signing that would have little strings attached for Sunderland and it would be an equally good move for Akpan, with the Black Cats possessing one of the more fruitful academy systems in the lower reaches of the Football League.

Whether or not he will make the grade or not in order to secure a contract remains to be seen but it is clear that the club have seen enough in him to take him on trial.

A club of Sunderland's stature offers a great platform for the defender to rebuild his confidence after being let go at such a young age by Chelsea.

Considering he is still only 16, it is fair to say that this lad has plenty of room for improvement and if his international recognition is anything to go by, he could well have a big future in the game.