21 October 2026·By [Paul Vegas](/author/paul-vegas)
Manchester United reportedly enquired about Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong in the summer, but the Blues rejected approaches and want to tie him down long term.
The 20-year-old is considered central to Chelsea’s plans, with the London club unwilling to entertain his departure despite interest from several sides. [_TalkSPORT_](https://talksport.com/football/4655524/transfer-news-man-utd-striker-target-january-premier-league/) reported that Manchester United were among the clubs to enquire about the England Under-21 international during the transfer window.
United’s summer recruitment focused heavily on midfield, with Andrey Santos, Carlos Baleba and Youri Tielemans among the senior additions mentioned in reports. The club also considered whether to strengthen elsewhere, and Acheampong emerged as a possible defensive target for head coach Michael Carrick.
Chelsea are understood to regard the defender as untouchable. They are also keen to secure his future with a new contract, even though his current agreement already runs until 2029.
The club could offer Acheampong a significant extension, potentially taking him into the mid-2030s, following the longer-term deals agreed with players such as Moisés Caicedo and Cole Palmer.
Acheampong has made eight appearances for Chelsea so far this season, adding to the senior experience he has accumulated since coming through the club’s academy. His ability to play in defence has made him an attractive prospect, but Chelsea’s stance suggests they have little appetite for losing a young player they see as part of their long-term plans.
For United, the reported enquiry indicates that their recruitment work extended beyond the midfield rebuild. However, there is no indication in the report that a formal bid was submitted, and Chelsea’s response appears to have ended any prospect of a deal during the summer window.