Josh Acheampong before a Chelsea game
Coventry are keen on signing Josh Acheampong and Chelsea could be willing to consider a deal for the defender, talkSPORT understands.
That is despite the Blues previously labelling the academy graduate as untouchable heading into this summer's transfer window.
Josh Acheampong during a Chelsea game5
Acheampong is highly-rated at Chelsea and has featured heavily in their pre-season campaign
talkSPORT reported in June that Chelsea had rejected multiple approaches for Acheampong, insisting he would be a vital part of new managerXabi Alonso's plans at Stamford Bridge.
But the west London outfit appear to have changed their stance since then, and could now do business with a familiar face.
Super Frank strikes?
With Coventry gearing up for their return to the Premier League after a 25-year absence, Blues legend Frank Lampard is keen to bolster his ranks by completing a deal for Acheampong.
The 20-year-old would offer top-flight experience, having made 17 league appearances last term in a breakthrough season.
Speaking on the latest episode ofThe Window, talkSPORT's chief football correspondent,Alex Crook confirmed the Sky Blues' interest in Acheampong.
He said: "Keep an eye on Josh Acheampong. He's a player that Frank Lampard would like to take to Coventry.
"And as we get towards the end of this window, there is a possibility that Chelsea might be willing to do that deal as well.”
Should a deal for Acheampong materialise, this would mark a stark turnaround from Chelsea's previous not-for-sale stance.
Djed Spence formalising Tottenham exit as £30million deal struck with sell-on clauseNext Premier League manager to leave odds: Newly promoted duo early favourites for chopLiverpool and Man United denied one of Europe’s hottest talents as contract agreedArsenal in talks over Quansah deal as England star lined up for Premier League return
Earlier this summer, they knocked back approaches from clubs in both England and Europe for the youngster.
Premier League rivals Manchester CityandManchester United, as well as German giants Bayern Munich, were all said to be among Acheampong's list of admirers.
Frank Lampard in pre-season for Coventry5
Frank Lampard has made six signings so far this summer, and is keen for more
Josh Acheampong of Chelsea FC shoots at goal under pressure from Enzo Le Fee of Sunderland FC during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Chelsea5
Acheampong is capable of playing across the back line
With this in mind, the youngster is likely to command a considerable fee, especially given his contract situation, or be sent out on loan.
Acheampong is contracted with Chelsea until 2029 after signing a new deal in December 2024.
And despite Coventry's interest, the Blues would likely rather keep the Cobham graduate, who has previously been tipped to play a vital role in west London for years to come.
Since making his debut in 2024, the versatile defender has gone on to make 44 first-team appearances, scoring twice.
Crook: Chelsea could sell more defenders
Interest in Acheampong comes amid a summer of upheaval in Chelsea's backline.
The Blues appear to be in the process of a defensive clear-out, with Trevoh Chalobah recently leaving to join Serie A side Como.
Xabi Alonso in Chelsea training5
Xabi Alonso has been busy putting his stamp on Chelsea this summer
This followed the £52million arrival of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, which has forced several defenders towards the exit door.
Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile have been linked moves away, having fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.
And Crook also provided an update on the future of the pair, as he revealed both stars could now be closing in on exits.
He told talkSPORT: “One departure from Stamford Bridge that looks set to happen now is that of defender Benoit Badiashile.
"He's off to Napoli on loan initially. There is a buy option included in the deal of around about £23m.
Crook added: “He might not be the only defensive departure - there are still doubts over the future of Axel Disasi.
Axel Disasi playing for Chelsea5
Axel Disasi looks set to leave Chelsea, having last played a competitive game for them in January 2025
"He's wanted by both West Ham in the Championship and there's been talks with Crystal Palace as well."