According to a report by Metro on Tuesday October 20, 2026, Chelsea reportedly rejected Manchester United’s summer approach for highly-rated defender Josh Acheampong, with the Stamford Bridge club determined to retain the young academy graduate amid growing interest from several European sides.

Acheampong, 20, is considered one of football’s promising defensive talents. Having joined Chelsea’s academy aged eight, he progressed through the youth ranks before making his senior debut in May 2024, shortly 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 opening seven Premier League matches this campaign, highlighting his increasing importance to the first-team squad.

According to talkSPORT, Chelsea rejected approaches from several European clubs during the summer, including an enquiry from Manchester United. Although Michael Carrick prioritised midfield additions, he also wanted to strengthen United’s defensive options.

Chelsea reportedly consider Acheampong ‘untouchable’ and are now preparing to offer him an improved contract. His existing agreement runs until 2029, but the club are keen to extend his stay following interest from rival teams.

The Blues have recently secured new contracts for Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo, and Acheampong could become another important player tied down to a longer-term deal.

His performances have also attracted praise from former England midfielder Danny Murphy following Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Everton, where the defender impressed alongside fellow wing-back Jorrel Hato.

Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, Murphy said: “The defence is improving. It was a big thing getting a clean sheet.”

He added: “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 defensive organisation and ability to manage the closing stages, believing the clean sheet would boost confidence among defenders and goalkeeper.

Chelsea currently occupy fourth place in the Premier League and will host London rivals Tottenham at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening.