Chelsea Prepare Acheampong Deal Amid Liverpool Interest

Chelsea are preparing a new long-term contract for defender Josh Acheampong on October 9 and 10, 2026, as the club seeks to retain the 20-year-old England Under-21 international amid interest from Liverpool and several European teams. According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea view Acheampong as a key future player under manager Xabi Alonso and want to extend his current agreement, which runs until 2029, potentially through 2032. The defender has attracted attention because he can operate as both a centre-back and right-back. TEAMtalk reported that Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Bournemouth, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Napoli have made enquiries about his situation.

According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea previously rejected Crystal Palace's proposal to include Acheampong in a deal involving Maxence Lacroix, reinforcing the club's intention to keep the academy graduate.

FootballTransfers reported that Acheampong made 30 senior appearances across all competitions last term and has already featured six times this campaign after becoming part of Alonso's first-team plans. FootballTransfers also reported that Alonso met with Acheampong's representatives during the summer to explain his expected role in the 2026-27 squad, while Chelsea prepared formal talks over improved terms.

Yahoo Sports reported that Liverpool explored the possibility of signing Acheampong during the summer as the club assessed defensive options with several senior players facing contract decisions. The report said Liverpool could value Acheampong's ability to cover multiple defensive positions and his homegrown status, while Chelsea continue negotiations to secure his long-term future.