Reading are apparently interested in taking young Chelsea star Ethan Ampadu on loan, the Chronicle understands.

Courtney Friday has said the Royals are keen on striking up a move for the 18-year-old, who is rated as one of the best young midfielders in the country.

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard admitted he would like Ampadu to go out on loan and get some game time after he was omitted from the tour of Japan.

He told the MailOnline: "Ethan is not here as we're looking at the possibility of him going on loan for the season.

"I tried to sign Ethan on loan at Derby last year, so I'm a big fan, but with the minutes he played last year, I have to think of the bigger picture and the interests of Ethan and of Chelsea.

"The idea that he could play a lot of games somewhere is good for him and we haven't brought him here while that is up in the air."