Chelsea could save themselves millions of pounds this summer by promoting a youngster to the first-team.

The West Londoners have a rich history of producing talent from their Cobham academy, with Conor Gallagher and Reece James the latest examples.

Often, their academy starlets will polish their skillset out on loan before being assessed upon their return, as was the case with the aforementioned pair.

Gallagher plied his trade with West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace, to name a couple, whilst James enjoyed a spell at Wigan Athletic.

Both are now regarded as key players for Mauricio Pochettino, which evinces how successful the model can be.

It appears another ‘incredible’ youngster is on that same trajectory.

Omari Hutchinson could save Chelsea millions

Chelsea signed Omari Hutchinson from Arsenal’s academy on a free transfer in the summer of 2022 and since arriving in West London, he’s been making noise in the reserve side.

The left-footed winger netted eight goals whilst laying on 10 assists for the under-21s last term and was shipped out on loan to Ipswich Town this season to further his development.

Hutchinson started off mainly as a super sub at the Championship outfit but of late, he’s really cemented his place in the starting line-up and has looked every inch of a Premier League player.

The 20-year-old was crowned the second tier’s Player of the Month in February and has been Kieran McKenna’s talisman thereafter.

The Jamaica international netted two sublime goals in a 3-3 draw away at Hull City on the weekend to take his tally to 10 goals and six assists.

Where Omari Hutchinson would fit in at Chelsea

Instead of Chelsea going out and spending £50m plus on a new wide player, they really should allow Hutchinson the chance to shine upon his return from his loan spell.

The jet-heeled winger is at his best when he comes in off the right onto his favoured left foot, so really he’d be a replacement for Noni Madueke, rather than Mykhailo Mudryk.

Further, he can also play through the middle as a number 10, so he’d be great depth for when Cole Palmer needs a rest.

Ipswich boss McKenna hailed his mentality, speaking to Sky Sports earlier this year: “He’s given everything you’d want from a loan player and more. He’s young and has high potential, but he hadn’t played any senior football before this season.

“I really liked his mentality, and we were on the same page as him, his family and his representation about what he needed, not just in terms of minutes but also development.”

Chelsea could have a star in the making on their books, they just need to offer him a platform to shine.

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