Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Real Madrid are reportedly keen on signing 19-year-old English youth international Josh Acheampong from Chelsea this summer.
According to a report by Caught Offside, Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Real Madrid are interested in Josh Acheampong. The three clubs are keen on reinforcing their defensive units by signing a versatile defender in the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, offers worth around €25-30 million for the 19-year-old may test Chelsea’s resolve, particularly if “multiple club formally enter negotiations” in the coming months.
Who is Josh Acheampong?
Josh Acheampong is the latest promising wonderkid to graduate from Chelsea’s fabled academy and break into the team’s first-team squad. The Blues have produced many world-class prodigies in the 21st century, and the London-born defender has been impressive in his limited outings for the West London club.
The 19-year-old enjoyed his breakthrough in the senior setup in the 2024/25 season, and he has become an asset due to his ability to play across the backline. The English youth international has 38 outings for Chelsea thus far, amassing over 2,000 minutes of game time. The youngster’s progress has piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs, with Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Real Madrid among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
A man in demand
Liverpool will dip into the market for a centre-back in the coming months, as Ibrahima Konate has entered the final six months of his contract and has yet to strike an agreement on a new deal. Meanwhile, Virgil van Dijk is approaching the twilight of his career, while Joe Gomez has struggled with fitness issues throughout his spell with the Merseyside club. So, Acheampong is a viable target for the central defensive berths, and his versatility makes him an appealing option.
Meanwhile, Josh Acheampong has been on Newcastle United’s wishlist for a long time. The continued interest makes sense, as Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are on the wrong side of 30. Additionally, Sven Botman has struggled with fitness issues in the last 18 months. So, Acheampong is an option worth considering for Newcastle United.
As for Real Madrid, Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are approaching the twilight of their careers, while Eder Militao has sustained three long-term injuries in as many seasons. So, the Spanish giants desperately need a young centre-back, and they view him as a young talent “capable of evolving into a leader over time”. So, Acheampong is an enticing target for Real Madrid.
However, a summer move for the Chelsea wonderkid will not be straightforward, as the Blues have identified the 19-year-old Englishman as “untouchable” for the summer. Interestingly, the report suggests a bid worth €25-30 million may test the West London club’s resolve. But considering the youngster’s status in the squad, it will be surprising to see him depart from Stamford Bridge for €25-30 million.
