Chelsea are in serious trouble, but not because of their Premier League form. Under new manager Xabi Alonso, who joined Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2026-27 season, the Blues are giving tough competition to the rest of the teams. Chelsea are concerned about their young defender Josh Acheampong, who is being pursued by multiple clubs ahead of the upcoming season. Even though his contract officially expires in 2029, the clubs are ready to go to any lengths to secure the left-back as soon as possible.
Recent reports suggest that clubs from all across Europe are showing interest in the 20-year-old player from Waltham Forest, England. Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are leading the race to secure the player for the next season. However, Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool are no less enthusiastic about him. They are closely monitoring his performance ahead of making a potential move in the January transfer window.
🚨 Chelsea are facing a battle to keep hold of Josh Acheampong, with the 20-year-old defender no closer to agreeing a new contract at Stamford Bridge. Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are showing the strongest interest, while Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool are also monitoring his situation. (Source: fussball-news)
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) November 1, 2026
Interestingly, this is not the first time that the Blues have received offers for Acheampong. In June 2026, clubs like Manchester United, Brentford, and even Arsenal showed their interest in the left-back. However, Chelsea rejected all the offers, maintaining that they won’t be letting out Josh anytime soon.
Is Chelsea really that concerned about losing Josh Acheampong? Undoubtedly. The Blues are working out a contract extension to nip the offers in the bud. They cannot afford to lose a player like him, especially after his performance in the recent Premier League match against Manchester United. Josh put up a solid defence as the Blues beat the Red Devils 2-0. Former Chelsea player Daniel Sturridge also took note of Acheampong’s brilliance as he posted the following on his X account,
Josh Acheampong is a baller and he’s only 20 years young. He can become elite him. Love his game 👏🏾
— Daniel Sturridge (@DanielSturridge) October 31, 2026
Why is Acheampong so special for the Blues? He is a brilliant player who is not just limited to his role as a left-back. He can play at right-back, as well as centre-half, as and when needed. Xabi Alonso has realized his potential and has been giving him more opportunities this season. The head coach is ensuring that the 20-year-old doesn’t miss out on a single Premier League match this season.
Acheampong has been a part of Chelsea since 2014, when he first joined the team’s youth academy. He made his professional debut in May 2024 as a substitute in a Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur. However, he received limited opportunities to represent Chelsea until 2026, when Alonso took over as the head coach. The Blues see him as an important part of their future plans, and they cannot afford to lose him at this moment.
Chelsea haven’t won a major trophy in a long time. They last won the Champions League in 2021, and it’s been nearly a decade since they last won the Premier League title. However, Alonso wants to change the equation. He wants the Blues to show the football world what they are truly capable of. This is why he needs players like Josh Acheampong for his long-term plans.
