Josh Acheampong has had it tough ever since breaking into the Chelsea side. At any normal club, the defender would probably be first choice, but the competition at Stamford Bridge has made it difficult.
The 19-year-old defender broke into Chelsea’s side during Enzo Maresca’s stint as manager, with the England U21 international one of many to benefit from Chelsea’s Europa Conference League triumph.
But this season, under both Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, Acheampong has been afforded little over 1200 minutes of football. Across Rosenior’s 20 games, Acheampong has managed just four starts.
Where does Josh Acheampong fit in at Chelsea?🤔
Liam Rosenior on Josh Acheampong
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Little surprise, given Chelsea have a huge number of defenders at their disposal, especially in his best position; centre-back. It has led to clubs becoming interested in Acheampong ahead of the summer.
Chelsea make Josh Acheampong stance clear: Not for sale
Bayern Munich have shown interest in Acheampong, while Man City considered a move in January before raiding Palace for Marc Guehi. In turn, an ambitious Palace tried to coax Acheampong across London.
Everton v Chelsea - Premier League
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Acheampong remained. But ahead of the summer window, more rumours are circulating. Newcastle and Liverpool are said to be keeping tabs on Acheampong, while Barcelona have opened talks to sign him.
But according to Football London, Chelsea have made their stance on Acheampong clear. They are not willing to entertain offers for the homegrown defender, despite his lack of game time this season.
What has Liam Rosenior said about Josh Acheampong
In press conferences, Rosenior has praised Acheampong and declared himself excited for the player’s future. But on the pitch, he decided to start Mamadou Sarr against PSG over the teenage defender.
Rosenior has even said he has spoken to Acheampong’s family, and has a long-term plan in place: “Josh is an amazing talent. I’ve got to meet him and his parents. Josh has got immense potential.”
How much would you SELL Acheampong for? 😤
It would have to be a hefty price…
Josh Acheampong to Bayern Munich and Crystal Palace transfer rumour
But as the game time continues to dwindle and Chelsea look set to prioritise a new centre-back in the summer, Acheampong must realise something. At any other club, he would be first choice right now.
Rosenior will be tasked with attempting to keep Acheampong happy. Perhaps, a loan may sit all parties involved. But only if it is made abundantly clear that Acheampong is to remain a Chelsea player.
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