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Crystal Palace are weighing up a move for Chelsea centre-back Josh Acheampong, with both loan and permanent options under consideration as the club reshapes its defence after Marc Guehi’s move to Manchester City. Sky Sports News reported the 19-year-old has become a serious target, but no formal negotiations have taken place and Chelsea have not decided whether to allow a January exit.
Crystal Palace consider Chelsea teen Acheampong after Guehi Man City move
Crystal Palace are exploring a deal for highly rated Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong, with the club considering both a loan and a permanent transfer. Sky Sports News reported the 19-year-old has emerged as a serious option as Palace continue to rebuild at the back following Marc Guehi’s transfer to Manchester City earlier this month.
Guehi’s departure has left Palace short of senior centre-back options, with Maxence Lacroix, Jaydee Canvot, Chris Richards and Chadi Riad now making up the core of the club’s defensive depth. The report said Palace are eager to address the gap left by Guehi, who had established himself as one of the best defenders in the league.
Acheampong is viewed at Chelsea as a defender with significant potential after progressing through the club’s academy. The teenager has made 31 senior appearances and scored once, and he has featured 17 times across all competitions this season, according to the report.
Despite that development, Acheampong has not played as regularly as expected, which has opened the door to interest from Premier League and European clubs. Chelsea rejected approaches from Borussia Dortmund last summer, the report said, but competition for defensive places at Stamford Bridge and continued investment in young talent has left his route to consistent minutes unclear.
No formal talks have taken place between the clubs and it remains uncertain whether Chelsea would approve a January departure. The report added that Chelsea’s position is likely to hinge on squad needs, upcoming fixtures and its long-term assessment of Acheampong’s value, with the situation one to watch whether a move happens this month or becomes a summer pursuit.
