One of Chelsea’s biggest Premier League rivals are threatening a move to sign one of their players this summer, however Enzo Maresca looks set to stand in their way.
Maresca has been left short in his mind when it comes to options who can play centre-back going into the new season, following the serious injury suffered by Levi Colwill.
The manager’s pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea’s first Premier League game against Crystal Palace saw Maresca launch an attack on the club chiefs for not backing him with the signing of a new centre-back this summer.
The Italian is therefore having to look within his squad to try and find a solution to the injury issues being suffered, and only had two pre-season games to see this in action before the new campaign.
Enzo Maresca during a Chelsea Training Session And Press Conference
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Enzo Maresca to reject Manchester City’s approach to sign Josh Acheampong
One player he looked at was Josh Acheampong, who started the first friendly against Bayer Leverkusen in the central role when the Blues were in possession.
While an opportunity has emerged for Acheampong at Chelsea, it seems as if fellow top clubs are keeping an eye to see of the chance comes up to sign him this summer.
According to The Guardian, Manchester City are amongst the sides interested in signing the youngster this summer, with him clearly a very promising talent.
However, the report goes on to say that Chelsea are set to turn down any offers for him this summer, with Maresca one of his big supporters at the club.
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Bournemouth have also registered an interest in Acheampong, and look as if they could certainly use defensive reinforcements after Djordje Petrovic’s new side conceded four in their Premier League opening fixture.
Josh Acheampong looks on during Chelsea FC v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - Pre-Season Friendly
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Acheampong in contention to face Palace
With no new signing going to be made in time to face Palace, there is a chance the Cobham graduate will be named in the starting side at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Wesley Fofana could return from injury for the game, but is more likely to be eased back into action than be thrown straight into the starting side.
Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo are the only other standout options to start at the heart of the defence, and it remains to be seen if Maresca trusts that duo to start the season.
If not, it could be the start of a massive season for Acheampong in West London, with him not being available to interested sides, even of the capacity of City.