Chelsea's recruitment is often under scrutiny, but the decision to keep Josh Acheampong at the club has proven to be the right one. Enzo Maresca was eager for the Blues to sign a new defender in the summer and went public with his wish after Levi Colwill's injury.
A new centre-back didn't arrive, and Maresca has instead turned to Acheampong amid injuries and suspensions. The 19-year-old has appeared four times in the league, and it was his stellar outing against Nottingham Forest on Saturday that caught the eye.
It has now been revealed the extent the club went to ensure the teenager remained at Stamford Bridge in the summer. He had options to leave, but Maresca made sure he wasn't going anywhere.
Chelsea turned down Acheampong proposals
Acheampong has earned Maresca's trust and he rewarded his manager with the opener in a 3-0 away win over Forest. He was also assured at the back, putting in the type of performance that could put the likes of Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo at risk of less game time.
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Chelsea shut the door on Borussia Dortmund, who enquired about a possible deal for the English youngster. He said on his YouTube channel:
"They were prepared to accept any formula: a loan, a loan with option to buy, a permanent transfer, anything. Borussia Dortmund wanted Acheampong. From Chelsea, it was a no.”
Romano added that a new centre-back wasn't signed because they wanted to give time and space for Acheampong to grow in Maresca's first team. He's taken his opportunity with aplomb, and his Forest exploits come after a fine display in a 2-1 win over Liverpool.
Acheampong on 'surreal' first Chelsea goal
Acheampong's goal against Forest was his first senior goal for Chelsea since debuting in May 2024. He reflected on the moment by suggesting he was so blown away that he couldn't recall it (via the club's website):
"It was a really good feeling to score. It’s quite surreal. I don’t remember it too much, but just a really good feeling. I don’t really remember much of the celebrations either, to be honest. I need to watch it back!"
The English teenager will be looking to build on his superb showing at the City Ground and will be keen to retain his starting place in Maresca's side. Ajax is next up in the Champions League on Wednesday (October 2022).