Chelsea have ended doubts over the future of Josh Acheampong by tying their young talent to a new and improved long-term contract.
Acheampong’s previous agreement was set to expire in June 2026 but following an uncertain period, he has signed a fresh five-year deal.
It sees the promising defender, 18, commit to Stamford Bridge until 2029 and is a timely development for the west London club.
Problems during the negotiations impacted Acheampong’s game time at senior and age-group level, but subsequent progress saw the academy graduate earn his full first-team debut in the recent Conference League victory at Astana.
Acheampong is now training with head coach Enzo Maresca’s squad on a daily basis and has a good chance to start again when Shamrock Rovers visit in the same competition on Thursday.
Maresca is known to be keen on working with such prospects and integrating them into his plans.
Retaining the England youth player is also viewed internally as a statement of intent by co-director of recruitment and talent Joe Shields and academy director Glenn van der Kraan, in conjunction with co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley.
Having joined Chelsea at Under-8 stage, Acheampong came through their system and turned professional in January before then boss Mauricio Pochettino gave him a first senior appearance; coming off the bench in a 2-0 home win over Tottenham Hotspur last season.
Acheampong has so far represented his country from Under-16 to Under-20 level.
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