Eddie Howe already has two Chelsea academy graduates in his Newcastle United squad, and could soon look to make it three.
Newcastle United have got Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall in their ranks, two players who came through the Chelsea academy. The Magpies even signed Hall from Chelsea, while Livramento made his way to Tyneside via Southampton.
Toon officials tried to bring in another Chelsea academy star over the summer, but Paul Mitchell failed to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. The 24-year-old is still on Newcastle’s radar, but it remains to be seen if he will ever arrive at St James’ Park.
While Toon fans wait to see if there is a fresh approach for Guehi, the Magpies have another Chelsea academy star in their sights.
Newcastle interested in Josh Acheampong
It was reported in September that Newcastle are interested in Josh Acheampong. He is an 18-year-old defender who made his Chelsea debut last season under Mauricio Pochettino.
He is a player with a lot of potential, which is why Newcastle are keen. Acheampong is also attracting interest from Real Madrid, which tells you all you need to know about the teenage right-back.
Acheampong is the type of player that Paul Mitchell wants to bring to St James’ Park. He is a young player with huge scope for improvement, and he could end up being worth a fortune in a few years.
Chelsea freezing out Acheampong over contract situation
That is why Newcastle want to sign him, and it is why Chelsea want to keep him at Stamford Bridge. However, the Blues are taking an interesting approach towards retaining Acheampong’s services.
According to the Athletic, Chelsea have opened talks with Acheampong to extend his contract, with his current deal due to expire in 2026.
The Athletic add that the defender has been told by Chelsea that he will not play for the club until he signs a new contract.
It is a very forceful approach, but the Athletic add that Chelsea remain hopeful that Acheampong will sign a new contract, with talks due to continue.
Newcastle will watch Acheampong situation closely
Given their interest in Acheampong, Newcastle United will be keeping a close eye on his contract situation with Chelsea.
The longer he goes without signing a contract, the longer he will go without playing. In that respect, it is difficult to see from the outside looking in why Acheampong would want to stay at Chelsea.
This contract situation surely makes a move away from Stamford Bridge more likely. That will be what Paul Mitchell is hoping for, as Acheampong looks like an ideal addition to the Newcastle United squad.
Newcastle will need to sign a new right-back very soon. Kieran Trippier is 34-years-old, while he expressed a desire to leave over the summer. Acheampong could be his replacement.
The fact that Acheampong can also play at centre-back will appeal to Newcastle, as Eddie Howe loves players that are versatile. It would also reduce the need for someone like Marc Guehi to arrive, which could allow the club to commit more money elsewhere.
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