Bournemouth have made two desperate attempts to sign Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong this summer but have been met with firm resistance. The 19-year-old has attracted interest across the Premier League, yet Chelsea remain determined to keep him at Stamford Bridge.
Bournemouth’s double approach
Sources confirm Bournemouth have held direct talks with Chelsea, making their intentions clear over a permanent move. However, Chelsea rejected both approaches firmly, as the Blues only remain open to a “dry loan” deal with no option to buy. That stance has left Bournemouth frustrated as they look to rebuild their back line following the exits of Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez and Illia Zabarnyi.
The Cherries stepped up their pursuit again in recent days, with the transfer deadline now under three weeks away, but Chelsea’s position has not changed. Bournemouth view Acheampong as an ideal solution to their defensive crisis, though their chances of success appear slim.
Chelsea stance amid wider interest
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is unwilling to sanction any move away, especially with Levi Colwill sidelined by a long-term ACL injury. The club regard Acheampong as part of their long-term plan, having tied him to a contract until 2029 earlier this summer. Chelsea staff view him as following a development path similar to Colwill’s—gaining loan experience before eventual first-team integration.
Manchester City have also shown interest and continue to monitor Acheampong closely, but they have not made any formal offer. Newcastle, Crystal Palace and West Ham previously linked themselves with the defender, yet Chelsea keep repeating the same message loudly and clearly: they will not sell him and they will not allow any loan with purchase conditions attached.
Josh Acheampong, who impressed during Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign, continues to rise in profile, but for now his immediate future looks set in blue.
Recommended for you