Arsenal have emerged as the latest club to express interest in signing Josh Acheampong, who is being targeted by several of Europe’s elite sides. However, it is claimed the 20-year-old is deemed unsellable by his parent club, Chelsea.
According to reports, the Gunners join a list that includes Liverpool, Newcastle United, Bournemouth, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Napoli in the race for the versatile defender. Despite their eagerness to hold onto the academy graduate, the Blues could consider a deal if they receive the right offer.
Acheampong has been at Chelsea since the under-8s and made his senior debut as a substitute against Tottenham Hotspur in May 2024 at the age of 17. He made 30 appearances in all competitions last season and has been part of the first-team under Alonso this campaign after a sparkling rise up the ranks.
The full-back can also play centre-back and has become a key figure in the Spanish boss’s plans. The Blues have offered the England U21 international an improved contract running until June 2029. Reports suggest that Acheampong’s current deal could be extended to 2032 to end future transfer speculation.
Chelsea have turned down several approaches from Arsenal for the young star, who looked at North London this summer. The Blues will hope that a lucrative new deal will satisfy his representatives ahead of the January transfer window. For now, Acheampong will be focusing on his side’s trip to Everton on Saturday.
Xabi Alonso: Josh Acheampong “Has Taken a Step Forward” at Chelsea
Xabi Alonso has sung the praises of Josh Acheampong, claiming the young defender has proven himself ready to make the most of his opportunities at Chelsea. The Spanish boss made the comments ahead of his side’s 5-1 win over Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.
The 20-year-old had recently returned from international duty, where he helped England Under-21s qualify for the next European Under-21 Championship. Acheampong has played a big part in Alonso’s first few months in charge, operating at both right-back and centre-back. The Spanish boss said in his pre-match press conference:
“Josh has played a few games and is ready to play. I saw he did well with the Under-21s; I know he didn’t play the last game but he has done well. He has taken a step forward.”
Acheampong responded by starting in the memorable 5-1 win over the Cherries. Alonso reportedly contacted Acheampong’s father over the summer and assured him his son would earn a first-team spot at the club. It seems like his hard work has been rewarded.