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Chelsea Turn Down Offers from Two Premier League Clubs as Xabi Alonso Fights to Keep Irreplaceable Defender
Aurora Nightingale | June 2, 2026 1:19 PM CST

Chelsea have reportedly rejected offers from two Premier League clubs for defender Josh Acheampong.

The 20-year-old gained valuable experience with 30 appearances during the 2025–26 season, contributing to the club’s attacking play with several goals.

Although most of his appearances came from the bench, Acheampong managed to attract attention from other Premier League sides as well as European teams.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have declined approaches from two Premier League clubs for the young defender.

Chelsea reject bids for Acheampong

However, it remains unclear which Premier League clubs contacted Chelsea regarding a potential transfer.

Several European clubs have also failed in their attempts to sign the right-back, who is equally capable of playing as a central defender.

Recent reports suggest that Chelsea consider Acheampong an ‘irreplaceable’ member of the squad ahead of Xabi Alonso’s first season in charge.

Alonso, who has been appointed as Chelsea’s manager on a four-year contract, appears to view Acheampong as a player with potential to develop under his supervision and someone who could play a vital role in the club’s long-term future.

The West London club are under no contractual pressure to sell, as Acheampong’s current deal runs until the summer of 2029.

How Alonso could utilise Acheampong

Although Alonso is keen to retain Acheampong’s services, it remains to be seen whether the new Chelsea boss feels the youngster is ready to start regularly or will continue to develop through substitute appearances.

If Alonso believes Acheampong is ready for a starting role, he may deploy him as a right-sided centre-back in the three-man defensive setup he often used at Leverkusen.

Alternatively, the 44-year-old coach might see him as a right wing-back, given his strong ball-carrying ability.

The England U-21 international is expected to compete more for the right-back spot than for a central defensive position if Alonso opts for a four-man defence in his first season at Stamford Bridge.

(TribunLombok / Irsan Yamananda / Sportsmole)


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