Overview
- Top transfer reporters say Chelsea and new head coach Xabi Alonso jointly decided to turn down multiple approaches for Josh Acheampong, with Fabrizio Romano reporting the rejections late on Monday.
- Acheampong, a 20‑year‑old England under‑21 defender who can play right‑back or centre‑back, signed a contract extension in December 2024 that runs until 2029 and gives Chelsea strong leverage.
- The club plan to include Acheampong in Alonso’s first pre‑season squad for the summer tour of Asia and Oceania as they integrate him into senior training and match plans.
- Playing time could be limited next season because Chelsea expect new centre‑back arrivals and the return of Levi Colwill from injury, a factor sources say could influence Acheampong’s long‑term choices.
- Rival clubs including Manchester United, Manchester City and Bayern Munich have been linked with interest, but Chelsea’s stated stance means any transfer this window looks unlikely unless club or player circumstances change.