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Chelsea: Ghana teenager David Oduro begins trial as European clubs chase defender

Ghanaian left-back David Oduro is on trial at Chelsea.

The 17-year-old Accra Lions defender went through a round of fitness testing at Cobham on Tuesday before training with the academy.

Oduro is preparing to move to Europe and has interest from a host of clubs including Chelsea, Shakhtar Donetsk and Real Sociedad.

Chelsea have secured an early look at the technically proficient defender, who has also already played 40 matches in the Ghana Premier League and is a current Under-20 international.

It remains unclear whether the Blues will sign Oduro permanently or if the youngster can secure a work permit before his 18th birthday in June.

Chelsea are taking the African market increasingly seriously under new owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital.

They signed 17-year-old Senegalese midfielder Pape Daouda Diong last month ahead of him joining in the summer when he turns 18.

Chelsea are keen to stock their academy with the best young talent from around the world, and in recent weeks have signed youngsters from Brazil, Jamaica and Serbia.

The club is also embarking on a multi-club strategy built around young players, with BlueCo partner club Strasbourg having £22million to spend on Under-23 players in January.

Strasbourg are in advanced talks to sign IMT striker Milos Lukovic, who is regarded as one of the best youngsters in Serbia.