Former Northern Ireland youth international Omari Kellyman set for big money move to Chelsea

Former Northern Ireland youth international Omari Kellyman looks set to complete a multi-million pound move to Chelsea. The highly-rated attacking midfielder swapped Northern Ireland for England last year after opting for his country of birth.

Kellyman hails from Derby but qualified for Northern Ireland through his mother who was born here. He had featured for the Under-17 and Under-19 sides before making the switch to England.

Speaking at the time Michael O'Neill said "all efforts" were made to retain Kellyman. He said: "It’s disappointing but all efforts were made to keep Omari. I’ve been consistent in my opinion about the FIFA rules with regard to an issue like this and feel there needs to be a little more flexibility up until senior levels.

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"I do think if a decision is made by a player before a certain age they should have the right to reconsider that decision. They are entitled to make that decision. I’ve always said international football is a choice. The player’s mindset is different to their club situation which is obviously their livelihood.

Kellyman joined Villa from Derby County for a reported £600,000 fee in July 2022 and quickly developed into a standout talent at Bodymoor Heath, featuring for the club's Under 18 and 23 sides. The 18-year-old signed a contract extension in November 2023 after making his senior debut in the Europa Conference League against Hibernian.

He was ruled out for a number of months with a hamstring injury before the New Year, but still managed to score seven goals in the 11 Premier League 2 appearances he made last term. But now it seems his time at Villa Park is coming to an end with Chelsea set to pay £19m for his services.

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