Chelsea have a gem on their hands. 18 year old Josh Acheampong has attracted interest from various clubs across Europe. The defender can play both at right back and centre back, making him suitable for a variety of game models and team formations.
With various sides closely monitoring his contract situation at Chelsea, the question remains, what makes him such an attractive prospect? Let’s delve into the finer details of his features that have top teams paying attention.
Technical Ability and Versatility
Josh Acheampong is the ideal modern-day defender, given his versatility and technical ability. At an early age, he has the talent and vision to play in several positions, including defensive midfield.
Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong, who joined Chelsea at the Under-8 age group, have now officially been inducted into the Men’s first team! 💙 pic.twitter.com/NjtYBDcRQB
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 19, 2024
His on-the-ball skills make him suited to a world where coaches focus on structure from the back. Acheampong’s ball control, foresight, and passing accuracy mean he can be relied upon in the first phase of building up.
Tactical Intelligence and Maturity
The modern game requires tactically astute defenders, and Acheampong shows glimpses of fitting into that box. He combines exceptional defensive skills with speed while being comfortable in possession.
With teams looking for ball-carrying defenders, the English professional fits the bill with his frequent runs into the final third. His passing range allows him to pick the right pass while quick thinking and a football mind help him release the ball at the right time.
Josh Acheampong vs Shamrock Rovers pic.twitter.com/BAsA6UA2eL
— ۟ (@BSTComps) December 20, 2024
At an early age, Acheampong has demonstrated great maturity in his style of play, which has been rewarded with a promotion to Chelsea’s first team.
Athleticism and Physical Attributes
At six foot one, Acheampong imposes himself physically enough to compete with stronger and taller attackers. With his robust musculature, he manages to win physical battles. The Chelsea defender also possesses enough agility to shift directions without losing balance, despite his physical stature.
The demands in the modern game to play a high line require fast defenders who can track back swiftly once the team loses possession. Acheampong has shown himself to be capable of recovering quickly during transitions, and coupled with his vertical leap, he can compete aerially as well.
Clubs Linked with Acheampong
Several top European sides have noticed Josh Acheampong’s exploits at Chelsea. His stacked list of suitors includes Borussia Dortmund, PSG, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Real Madrid.
Other hopefuls are Manchester United and Arsenal, but these clubs are only monitoring his situation with the acknowledgement that a deal would be tricky to reach given the clubs’ rivalry with Chelsea. The Reds are faced with the same circumstances but are still actively considering Acheampong.
Josh Acheampong was made in a labpic.twitter.com/Ph812TTY0C
— ~ (@CFCdruw) December 19, 2024
For Borussia Dortmund, the Blue’s defender represents the archetype of young players they love to recruit, develop, and sell at a considerable profit. Real Madrid, are looking to add new youthful defenders to their squad as some more experienced players approach retirement.
Contract Situation at Chelsea
After weighing his options and pushing for the best deal possible, Acheampong signed a new deal at Chelsea. Newly appointed manager Enzo Maresca rewarded him with a promotion to the first team.
Despite his contract expiring in 2028, interest in the young defender remain. We can only speculate whether Chelsea would be open to hearing offers. Given that he was presented with his first senior team start, Acheampong will be hoping to establish himself at Chelsea.
The Upshot
With his tactical intelligence, technical ability, and physical presence, Josh Acheampong is an exciting prospect who holds great promise. Chelsea have moved swiftly to tie him down to a long-term deal. However, interest in the young defender will remain, given the rarity of his profile at the elite level.
