Chelsea set to lose academy wonderkid amid contract dispute

Cameron Smith

22 Nov 2024 11:00 GMT
3 min read

Josh Acheampong, Enzo Maresca, Chelsea — © IMAGO

Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly ramped up their interest in Chelsea youngster Josh Acheampong amid his current exile at Stamford Bridge.

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The 18-year-old is one of the most highly-rated players in Chelsea’s famed academy, but his contract is due to expire in 2026 and he has been frozen out by the Blues hierarchy.

Acheampong has been informed that he will not play for Chelsea at any level until he signs a new deal with the club and his current situation in west London is being monitored by several European giants as a result.

Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool, Newcastle United and Real Madrid are all interested in signing the teenager and have sent scouts to watch him in action for England’s U19 side over the past few months, as per The Independent.

Furthermore, the report claims that PSG are also eager to land Acheampong, with Luis Enrique’s side escalating their interest as they look to “test Chelsea’s resolve.”

However, the Ligue 1 giants could face significant competition in the form of Real Madrid, with the Spanish outfit open to signing Acheampong in January following Dani Carvajal’s ACL injury.

What has Enzo Maresca said?

Ahead of Chelsea’s Europa Conference League clash against Panathinaikos in October, Blues boss Enzo Maresca admitted: “To be honest, I feel a bit of a shame for Josh because this kind of game could be an opportunity for him.

“It’s a shame because I really think that Josh, potentially, can be a top player. He’s still 18, very young, so many things can change for him but in terms of potential in future, he can be very important for Chelsea.”

Chelsea have insisted that Acheampong isn’t for sale, but his last appearance at any level for the club came against Barrow in the Carabao Cup on 24 September, and interest in his services is rising amid his current contract standoff.