Cardiff City have today announced the signing of Omari Kellyman. The 19-year-old will join the League One frontrunners on a season-long loan after moving to Chelsea last summer.
Exceptional Purchase for the Level
Kellyman featured heavily in Aston Villa’s youth set-up prior to a move to Chelsea. The Blues purchased the versatile attacking-midfielder in a £19 million deal, emphasising the level of talent that the Bluebirds will be gaining. Kellyman is yet to feature at Stamford Bridge and only made six professional appearances for Villa, but was sought out eagerly by Cardiff this summer.
The 19-year-old has appeared in two international youth set-ups. In 2021, Northern Ireland under-17s handed Kellyman three appearances, where he scored twice. A switch in national allegiance in 2023/24 saw Kellyman feature seven times over various competitions for the England under-19s.
Cardiff Business Heating Up
Cardiff have made just two signings this summer, but both have been tremendous value so far. Nathan Trott joined on a season-long loan, with a definite view in mind of extending that deal after recent performances. The goalkeeper arrived this month on a temporary deal from FC Copenhagen. Trott has already kept five clean sheets in six games. Gabriel Osho has also joined the Bluebirds, exemplifying their demand for a return to the Championship. Auxerre allowed Osho to return to England and is set to bolster an already exceptional defence.
Speaking to the club’s media team, following an important loan move in the 19-year-old’s career journey, Kellyman had this to say on his emotions:
“I’m happy to be here. I Can’t wait to get started. I like to make things happen. I like to be forward thinking and get on the ball as much as possible. I want to come here, get some goals and assists and help the team.
“I’ve been watching the recent game and it’s been great to see the exciting players we already have. I’m looking forward to playing with the lads.”
Writer’s View
Kellyman will prove to be a fine asset in a young, promising League One outfit. Brian Barry-Murphy has clearly focused on a youth-oriented approach, with experienced players like Ryan Wintle and David Turnbull being the reliable heavyweights in a young Cardiff squad.
Barry-Murphy’s ability to extract professionalism and talent from young players, as seen in such a short space of time this season, will hugely benefit Kellyman as he looks to develop in a lower-level environment to Chelsea. It cannot be understated just how incredible the former Manchester City coach has been already. Players like Ronan Kpakio and Will Lawlor, alongside Dakarai Mafico, have all been expertly handed opportunities and Kellyman will be the latest.
