Reading Kieran Gill’s Chelsea Confidential for the Daily Mail is always enjoyable, especially when it features some unique reporting, which is exactly what it has done this week. An emerging star in the junior system will receive a first senior contract from Chelsea, according to the well-connected writer.
Enzo Maresca has praised Reggie Walsh, describing him as a “perfect” fit for his system following his debut the previous season. Gill claims that although no one is certain when Chelsea will make the announcement, the agreement will be signed the following week:
According to Gill, “Walsh will sign his first professional contract with Chelsea next week. Sources confirm that he will sign a pre-agreed deal after turning 17 years old.” The Blues, whose head coach Enzo Maresca was a big admirer of the young England star, were eager to sign the technically talented adolescent as soon as possible.
Maresca’s favourite academy star set to sign new Chelsea contract
The Daily Mail claims that Walsh is anticipated to sign a contract next week, as Chelsea is eager to finalise the already agreed upon agreement. Given that head coach Maresca has already acknowledged his appreciation for Walsh, this is not shocking.
Last season, Maresca also made Walsh’s senior Chelsea debut as a substitute against Djurgarden in the UEFA Conference League semifinal. A week later, in the second leg of the match, Walsh made his Chelsea debut, becoming the team’s youngest-ever starter in a European competition.
The only first-team opportunity the England Under-18 star has had this season is a brief appearance in the Carabao Cup match against Lincoln City. Nevertheless, given his age and Maresca’s respect for him, he will undoubtedly have more opportunities in the future.
The teenager will hopefully have opportunities if Maresca chooses to rest Cole Palmer or Enzo Fernandez because Walsh is primarily a number 10 who can also play as a centre midfielder.
