Why Chelsea have waited until now to announce new signing Leo Black from Tottenham
Chelsea have finally announced the signing of Leo Black from Tottenham Hotspur after the versatile star’s contract expired in North London – but why have Chelsea delayed confirmation?
Black, 20, had been on the fringes of a first-team breakthrough at times under Ange Postecoglou over at Spurs. He’d been on pre-season tours and involved in senior training, but he never made a Spurs debut.
Instead, Spurs decided not to renew his contract after 46 appearances for the U21 side and nine England U19 caps. Chelsea made the decision to take Black on trial in August, and have finally confirmed a deal.
Chelsea confirm Leo Black deal on Tuesday – but why?
The right-back, who can play in midfield, made his debut for Harry Hudson’s U21 side in the 5-4 win over West Ham in Premier League 2. It was the second string’s third game of the season in all competitions.
Black has since played in the 4-1 win over Arsenal, and then a 3-1 home win over Fulham. In both games, despite playing from right-back, Black scored. He has been nominated for the PL2 Player of the Month.
Chelsea signed more experienced players this summer to get SERIOUS! What impact has it made on the team so far? 🤔
But it took until Tuesday for Chelsea to confirm that Black had been awarded a two-year contract in West London. It is believed Hudson and Chelsea wanted to judge Black competitively before signing him.
On Tuesday, Chelsea confirmed the signing of Black, who had technically remained a free agent until this week. Black has proven himself worthy after two months on trial, underlining his delight on Instagram.
“A blessing to be given such an amazing opportunity. Thank you God,” Black posted less than 24 hours ago, following confirmation. Josh Acheampong, Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli and Tayo Subuloye commented.
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Already this season, Alonso has given first-team debuts to Reggie Watson and Nicoll-Jazuli. Both players have quickly become two of Chelsea’s five youngest players after Alonso handed them their Blues debuts.
Beyond the midfield duo, Hudson has plenty of U21 stars who could follow them. Subuloye was part of the Chelsea side that went on tour, Chizzy Ezenwata is scoring goals, and Black himself is in great form.
To be nominated for the PL2 Player of the Month award, Black has a real chance of playing in the senior side this season. But Black has Malo Gusto, Reece James and Marco Palestra ahead of him at Chelsea.
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