What has been said?
The club said in a statement: Leeds United are pleased to announce the signing of Lewis Bate.
The 18-year-old has been part of the Chelsea youth setup for the last 10 years and captained the Blues in the 2020 FA Youth Cup final.
Last season he made the step up to Under-23s football, making 20 appearances as Chelsea finished runners-up in Premier League 2 Division 1.
He has also won caps at youth level for England at both Under-17 and Under-18 level.
He will initially link up with Mark Jacksons Under-23s for the forthcoming season.
Was there other interest in Bate?
Leeds have beaten West Ham United, Liverpool, Leicester City and Brighton & Hove Albion to his signature.
Why are Chelsea letting him go?
Chelsea had no choice but to negotiate his sale after Bate made it clear he wasnt going to sign a new contract to stay at Stamford Bridge.
Bate, who joined Chelseas academy at Under-9s level, had just one year left on his current agreement and while the club offered good terms, it was rejected because he wanted to join a club where there was a better pathway and vision for him to play first-team football.
Where can I find out more?
Go Deeper below to read the full story of how Leeds snapped up one of Chelseas most exciting young players.
(Photo: Getty Images)
