Chelsea defender Alfie Gilchrist is set to join Sheffield United on loan from the West London club for the upcoming campaign.
Chelsea have decided to send the talented young 20-year-old defender Alfie Gilchrist on loan to EFL Championship club Sheffield United so that he can gain regular first-team action in the upcoming campaign. Furthermore, the youngster will undergo his medical with the Blades this week, as per The Athletic.
The 20-year-old defender is highly rated at Chelsea, and he has a bright future ahead of himself. He could develop into a key player for the club in the coming season, and it is no surprise that Chelsea are handling his development with care.
The 20-year-old made 17 first-team appearances for the Blues last season, and a number of clubs were keen on securing his services this summer. Chelsea will be hoping to help him develop further and fulfil his tremendous potential in the coming seasons. They need more quality and depth in the defensive unit, and the 20-year-old could be a key player for them in the long run.
Gilchrist will want to be a first-team player for Chelsea soon
Gilchrist will look to continue his development with regular football at Sheffield United. Ample first-team exposure will help him improve further, and it could accelerate his development. The 20-year-old will look to establish himself as a key player for the Blades in the upcoming campaign and return to Chelsea as a better player next summer.
Chelsea have a formidable pool of young talent at the club, and it remains to be seen whether they can help these young players fulfil their potential in the coming seasons. Meanwhile, Alfie Gilchrist made his first-team debut for Chelsea last season against Crystal Palace, and he was handed multiple opportunities by former manager Mauricio Pochettino.
The talented young defender scored his first goal for the club against Everton as well. Gilchrist has a contract with Chelsea until 2026, and the Blues have an option to trigger a one year extension. It remains to be seen whether they decide to tie him down to a new long-term deal if he manages to impress at Sheffield United.
