Newcastle United have received a disappointing update on Josh Acheampong’s future at Chelsea.
The Magpies are constantly on the lookout for young players they can sign, as Paul Mitchell aims to snap up talented youngsters with high potential.
Josh Acheampong falls into that category, but a move to St James’ Park may no longer be on the horizon.
It was reported in September that Newcastle were interested in Acheampong, with the Chelsea teenager’s future uncertain.
Things became more uncertain in October when it emerged that Chelsea were refusing to play Acheampong until he signed a new contract, with his current deal running until 2026.
It was a pretty ruthless tactic from the Blues, which could have ultimately resulted in the 18-year-old opting to leave Stamford Bridge. That would have presented Newcastle United with an opportunity, but it is an opportunity that is now about to disappear.
Josh-Kofi Acheampong of Chelsea is challenged by Katia Kouyate of Barrow during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Chelsea and Barrow at Sta...
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Enzo Maresca confirms Josh Acheampong contract extension is ‘close’
That is because Enzo Maresca has provided an update on Acheampong’s Chelsea future ahead of their Europa Conference League game against Astana on Thursday.
“With Josh it is all quite clear,” he said.
“We all love Josh, the club loves Josh, I love Josh and we are trying to find an agreement. We are close, we are almost there. We’ll see.”
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Maresca added: “He is in the squad and is probably going to play from the start [against Astana on Thursday].”
Josh Acheampong news is a blow for Newcastle United
With Acheampong set to make just his second appearance of the season under Maresca, it would appear that his future is now resolved.
The Chelsea boss believes that a contract extension is close – so close that the Blues are now willing to play the young defender once again.
That is a shame for Newcastle, as Acheampong would have been a smart addition to Eddie Howe’s squad. He is primarily a right-back, and could have arrived as Kieran Trippier’s replacement. The 34-year-old wanted to leave Newcastle in the summer, and it will be a shock if he does not leave St James’ Park in 2025.
While Acheampong could have taken his place, Newcastle United will now need to find another way to accommodate Trippier’s departure. That could be difficult in January, with PSR set to cause issues once again for the Magpies.