This archive report was first published on 8 July 2019.
Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi is hopeful of agreeing a new contract with the club in the coming weeks, after receiving encouraging words from new manager Frank Lampard.
Lampard, who took charge of the Blues in July, has expressed his desire for the England international to stay at Stamford Bridge, which has reportedly boosted Hudson-Odoi's confidence.
Despite having one year left on his current contract, Hudson-Odoi handed in a transfer request in January, but Bayern Munich's £35m offer was rejected by Chelsea.
Although Bayern still retain an interest in the 18-year-old, who is recovering from an Achilles injury suffered in April, Hudson-Odoi is said to be focused on securing regular playing time under Lampard.
Playing time has been a key issue for Hudson-Odoi, who made 24 appearances under former boss Maurizio Sarri last season but had to wait until April to make his first Premier League start.
Lampard has praised Hudson-Odoi's talent, saying he can be a 'huge player' for Chelsea, but added that he would have to fight for his place in the team.
'I am not going to say things that are pie in the sky but, with his talent, he can be central to this team, he can be central to England,' Lampard said.
'He can show, right here at Chelsea, the team he came through the academy at, that he is going to be a world-class player – because I truly believe that.'
Formal contract talks between Hudson-Odoi and Chelsea have yet to begin, but a five-year deal worth over £100,000 a week is reportedly on the table.
