Chelsea have made progress in talks with Josh Acheampong over a new contract, but an agreement isn’t imminent according to Football London.
Acheampong is regarded as one of the best talents in the academy along with the likes of Tyrique George, but Chelsea took the decision to freeze him out last month amid a reluctance to sign a new deal.
The teenager made his debut for the first team last season under Mauricio Pochettino and featured in the Carabao Cup tie against Barrow earlier this campaign.
Chelsea making progress on Acheampong contract
Acheampong is currently under contract until 2026 and only signed a new deal with the club in January, but Chelsea appear determined not to lose another young talent potentially on a free transfer.
With Reece James injured and Malo Gusto the only other recognised right back in the squad the 18-year-old has missed out on a number of opportunities to add to his first team appearances.
Maresca had previously described the situation as sad, but this week it appeared there was some progress as Acheampong was spotted training with the first team ahead of Thursday’s game against Heidenheim.
Josh Acheampong plays against Barrow. (Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
Acheampong trained with the first team on Wednesday. (Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
However, he wasn’t named in the travelling squad and he’s continued to be linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Bayern Munich believed to be the latest to express an interest.
Football London have provided an update on the situation and have reported that positive talks have been held recently, but an agreement is not thought be imminent.
The report adds that Acheampong was named in the the squad for Friday night’s under-21 game against Derby County for the first time since September, which is seemingly another positive step in the right direction.
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It’s a real shame that a player of his quality and potential has been denied opportunities because of a contractual situation, although you can understand why he might be hesitant to commit his long term future to the club.
However, with James’ persistent injury issues there is a pathway at Chelsea for Acheampong but it’s down to him whether he views Stamford Bridge as the right place to develop his career.