Chelsea have unfortunately lost a number of top prospects from their academy over the years, however have managed to tie down one on a new contract.
Former academy star Rio Ngumoha looked destined to be the next big thing at Stamford Bridge, however is now making a significant impact for Premier League rivals, Liverpool.
Ngumoha scored a last-minute winner against Newcastle before he even turned 17, with the Blues left to rue the fact that they had not shown him a suitable pathway to the first team squad in West London.
It looks as if the club have looked to learn from that mistake with a number of the top young players still at the club. Ryan Kavuma-McQueen has already committed his future to the Blues.
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Kobe Barbour signs long-term contract with Chelsea
Kobe Barbour is a player who has been with the club since the age of eight, and broke into the Chelsea U18 setup at the same time as Ngumoha.
Despite his former teammate moving on, the Chelsea website has confirmed that Barbour has signed a contract for at least the next three years to remain at Cobham.
Opportunities for youngsters has not been uncommon since Enzo Maresca took over the club. The likes of Shumaira Mheuka, Reggie Walsh and Genesis Antwi have all made their first team debuts under the Italian.
The 18-year-old has appeared for the Under 21s already, and now he is staying at the club for the foreseeable future more opportunities at that level could be coming his way.
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Who is Kobe Barbour?
Barbour can play anywhere across the frontline behind the striker, however has already been significantly impacted by injury during some key years of his development.
The youngster missed the majority of last season due to fitness problems, however has already got off to a strong start in the current campaign.
Barbour has three goals and an assist already this season, including finding the net in the UEFA Youth League.
There are plenty of promising young attackers coming through the ranks at Cobham, however Chelsea should be delighted that they have secured the future of Barbour for the coming years.