Chelsea is interested in signing Edwards on a free transfer, as his scholarship contract with the club expires at the end of June. Arsenal would be entitled to compensation if the trade goes through.
Edwards has been a big success for Arsenal U18s this season, scoring 17 goals, but despite the club offering him a contract three times, he has failed to sign professional terms with the club.
Chelsea are currently prohibited to recruit any players as a result of the UK government sanctioning Roman Abramovich following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The Blues, on the other hand, are hoping to get new ownership shortly, which would allow them to make additions.
Edwards is in high demand, with RB Leipzig, Borussia Monchengladbach, and Newcastle United among the clubs keeping tabs on his status. Brighton, Southampton, and Leeds are reportedly interested as well.
Chelsea is looking to make acquisitions at the young level, with their U23s in danger of being relegated to Premier League 2’s second tier.
Edwards is now sidelined due to a stress fracture in his back, which will keep him out for the remainder of the season. This season, he has only made two league appearances for Arsenal U23s, one of which was a goal against West Ham.
Edwards’ lack of opportunities at the U23 level has largely been owing to the club’s overabundance of players, with Mika Biereth, who signed from Fulham last year, establishing himself as Kevin Betsy’s main striker.
This season, Edwards has shown his versatility at the U18 level. He has been played in midfield at times, despite being a striker, and has excelled with his link-up play.
He is a technically gifted player who makes deft off-ball runs and is known for his clinical tendency in front of goal at the juvenile level.