Former Chelsea wonderkid who rejected incredible offer from Real Madrid at 16 has seen his career take another brutal twist

A former Chelsea wonderkid who once turned down Real Madrid has seen his career taken another brutal twist.

Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in England and in Europe, having won two Champions Leagues among other trophies.

Over the years, some huge names have represented the Stamford Bridge club, including the likes of John Terry, Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Eden Hazard.

They have also produced some well-known stars through their academy, with players such as Mason Mount, Reece James and Declan Rice having played in the Blues' youth teams.

However, not every single talent manages to make it all the way to the top.

For example, midfielder Josh McEachran was one of many highly-rated talents at Chelsea.

However, after loan moves to the likes of Swansea, Watford, Wigan and Vitesse, he left Stamford Bridge in 2015.

Previously, McEachran admitted that he had an offer from Spanish giants Madrid, but turned it down to stay with Chelsea.

He said: "I was 15 or 16 at the time and Chelsea offered me a very good contract. But Real showed interest in me and were going to fly my family out to Spain.

"And when Real Madrid want to sign you then it is very tempting. But in the end I chose to stay at Chelsea because they were my team and I had been there since such a young age."

Josh McEachran was once on Chelsea's books. Image: Getty

After leaving Chelsea, McEachran played for the likes of Brentford, Birmingham City, MK Dons and most recently, Oxford United.

However, now at the age of 32, McEachran's career has taken another brutal twist.

It has recently been confirmed that the midfielder has not been given a new deal by Oxford.

A statement from the club read: "Oxford United have confirmed the list of players to be retained and released following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.

"Josh McEachran, Joe Bennett, Max Woltman, Eddie Brearey and George Franklin will depart the Club following the expiration of their contracts this summer."