As we enter the final phase of the 25/26 campaign, Chelsea should now seriously introspect their shortcomings. In the summer transfer window, they must have a clear plan to strengthen their weaknesses.
The Blues are expected to make some big moves this time around. Last summer’s recruits have not been enough for them to compete at the highest level. And BlueCo might finally be starting to realise the need for experience and proven quality.
Defence would obviously be one of the key areas which the management would look to make some changes in during the summer. transfer window. Chelsea have already been linked to Werder Bremen’s Karim Coulibaly and Nottingham Forest’s Murillo.
Although, Chelsea might just have a gem right under their noses, who they have failed to get the best out of yet. We are talking about Josh Acheampong.
Chelsea make decision on Josh Acheampong exit amid Manchester City and Bayern Munich links
Acheampong has been massively underused by the club. He has only made 13 starts so far this season in all competitions. 10 out of them came under Enzo Maresca and only three under Liam Rosenior.
On paper, Rosenior seems like the perfect coach to develop Acheampong. And when given a chance, the Cobham graduate has done well. Unfortunately, the pressure of having to win consistently seems to be preventing managers from giving him enough playing time to develop. That has seen him being linked with an exit. Clubs like Man City and Bayern Munich are rumoured to be interested.
Despite the lack of game time, according to Express, there are no intentions for Acheampong to be offloaded in the summer. Chelsea are resolute that he is not available and remains a significant part of the long-term strategy.
Josh Acheampong should have played a lot more often this season
Acheampong is known for his versatility at the back. He can play both as a right-back and as a centre-back. And with how bad Chelsea have been defensively this season, the Englishman should have played a lot more than he has. There is no hiding from that. This campaign was a good opportunity to integrate him into the starting XI.
Last summer, Borussia Dortmund showed interest in the youngster. During the winter transfer window, Crystal Palace also reportedly enquired about Acheampong.
Now with limited minutes, the youngster could become impatient and look at other avenues where he would get more playing time than at Chelsea. On top of that, the club look certain about bringing in defensive reinforcements during the summer.
So, it might take some convincing on the part of Chelsea to prevent Acheampong from wanting to leave. He needs to be shown that he a part of long-term plans, not just with words, but with actions.
