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Arsenal made contact to sign Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong

By on October 10, 2026

Arsenal reportedly made contact to sign Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong, as per TEAMtalk.

After coming through the Blues’ youth system, the 20-year-old made his first-team debut a couple of years ago. Initially, he struggled to break into the starting line-up before playing as a rotational option last term.

However, Acheampong featured regularly under Xabi Alonso before the September/October international break, keeping a solitary clean sheet in six appearances across all competitions.

Now, TEAMtalk claim that Arsenal expressed their interest in Acheampong this summer and held talks to learn about the details of signing him. Apart from the Gunners, Liverpool, Newcastle United and AFC Bournemouth enquired about his availability.

Moreover, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Napoli have made contact over this deal in recent years. Crystal Palace even attempted to buy him to replace Maxence Lacroix, who joined the Blues this summer.

However, the report state that Chelsea have made it clear that they won’t allow the youngster to leave, with his existing deal set to run until 2029. They are prepared to hand him a fresh term until 2032.

Arteta likes having versatile defenders, and Acheampong, valued at around £26m by Transfermarkt, can play multiple positions. He is a right-footed centre-back by trait but is comfortable in the right-back position.

The defender, standing at 6ft 3in tall, is quick, strong, good in the air, comfortable playing out from the back, and is efficient in defensive contributions.

Acheampong to Arsenal

Following William Saliba’s serious back problem, Arsenal decided to reinforce the defence by purchasing Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa this summer.

Therefore, Mikel Arteta already has enough options in the backline. Meaning, the North London club don’t need a new defender unless anyone leaves.

However, Acheampong is an elite talent and possesses the potential to reach the top. Therefore, he would have been a shrewd acquisition for the Emirates club had they managed to secure his services this summer.

Meanwhile, following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League just before the international break, Arteta’s side have slipped down to second position. Manchester City are currently the league leaders, having won all five league matches.