Chelsea rejected an approach from Manchester United for young defender Josh Acheampong during the summer transfer window, with the Premier League club determined to keep hold of the academy graduate.

According to a report by Metro on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, Manchester United were among several clubs interested in signing the 20-year-old, but Chelsea made it clear that he was not available for transfer.

Acheampong is regarded as one of the most promising young defenders in football. He joined Chelsea’s academy at the age of eight and made his senior debut in May 2024, four months after signing his first professional contract.

The versatile defender made 30 appearances across all competitions last season and has featured in six of Chelsea’s first seven Premier League matches this campaign.

According to talkSPORT, Chelsea received interest from clubs across Europe, including an enquiry from Manchester United, who were looking to strengthen their defensive options under manager Michael Carrick.

Although United focused primarily on midfield reinforcements during the summer, Carrick was also keen to improve his defensive depth. However, Chelsea were unwilling to sanction Acheampong’s departure.

The Blues are now preparing to reward the youngster’s progress with a new contract. His current deal runs until 2029, but the club are keen to extend his terms following recent contract agreements with Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo.

Acheampong’s performances have also attracted praise from former England midfielder Danny Murphy after Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday.

Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, Murphy highlighted the improvement in Chelsea’s defensive performances and singled out Acheampong and fellow wing-back Jorrel Hato for their contributions.

He said: “I thought the wing-backs, Acheampong and Hato, were terrific, both of them. There was a composure about them in the second half.”

Murphy also praised Chelsea’s ability to manage the game and secure a clean sheet, describing the defensive display as an encouraging development for the team.

Chelsea, currently fourth in the Premier League, will host London rivals Tottenham at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.