Chelsea confirm signing of ex-Tottenham wonderkid after dazzling on trial

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of former Tottenham starlet Leo Black, three months after he left the Blues’ London rivals.

The versatile 20-year-old, who can play as a right-back and midfielder, called time on his 12-year association with Spurs in June.

He had featured in the club’s development squad, making close to 100 appearances between various age groups, and left the club when his contract expired at the end of last season. He also trained with the first team under Ange Postecoglou and travelled for pre-season tour in 2024.

Black joined Chelsea on trial earlier this summer and made a bright start to life in west London. Two Premier League 2 goals were enough to see him nominated for the division’s September player of the month award alongside his new team-mates Reggie Watson and Chizaram Ezenwata.

He debuted for the Blues’ Under-21s - now known as Cobham Next Gen - in a 5-4 victory over West Ham, going on to score against both Arsenal and Fulham.

His performances in those matches were enough to see him through his trial, and Black has put pen to paper on a two-year contract.

Leo Black in action for Chelsea against Arsenal in the PL2

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It remains to be seen whether the England youth international will be handed a chance in Xabi Alonso’s first-team. The Spaniard has already shown a willingness to use young talent, handing Watson a start against Leeds in the Carabao Cup, but Chelsea’s lack of European football this season will limit opportunities for academy promotion.’

Posting on Instagram after signing his Chelsea contract, Black wrote: “A blessing to be given such an amazing opportunity. Thank you God.”