Josh Acheampong of Chelsea has been the subject of transfer speculation—but in a twist, the young defender recently signed a contract extension. Despite that, Softfootball has gathered that Chelsea are open to selling the 19-year-old if a favourable offer comes in.
Acheampong is a player highly appreciated by Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca. He made 13 appearances last season, coming through the ranks at Cobham Academy.
Chelsea, however, are well-stocked in the right-back department, with Reece James and Malo Gusto ahead of him in the pecking order.
This depth is one of the reasons the Blues might be open to a sale. Another key factor is that offloading a homegrown player would greatly benefit Chelsea’s PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules) compliance.
West Ham initially showed interest in the English U21 international, but with new names entering the frame, it’s no longer a one-horse race.
Softfootball can confirm that both Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are also interested in the defender. Should Chelsea name a reasonable price, Acheampong will not be short of suitors. Both clubs are in the market for a new right-back this summer.
Newcastle are preparing for life after Kieran Trippier, who appears to be nearing the exit. That would leave Tino Livramento as the club’s only senior right-back—making the acquisition of another option crucial.
Tottenham, on the other hand, have Pedro Porro as their starting right-back. Although Djed Spence can provide cover, the club sees him primarily as a left-back. That opens the door for a young fullback like Acheampong to challenge Porro for a spot in the team.
Spurs have been active this transfer window. As Softfootball previously reported, they are also pursuing Mohammed Kudus and have had an initial offer rejected by West Ham.
Meanwhile, Newcastle are locked in a transfer battle with Aston Villa for Matteo Guendouzi and are also fighting to keep hold of star striker Alexander Isak from Liverpool’s interest.
One thing is clear: if either Newcastle or Tottenham manage to land Josh Acheampong, they won’t just be signing a promising youngster for squad depth—they’ll be securing a future star in the making.
