Arsenal have reportedly joined the race to sign Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong, with the 20-year-old attracting interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs.
According to journalist Simon Phillips, the Gunners are the latest club to explore a potential move for the highly rated youngster, although the Blues consider him an important part of their future.
Acheampong has also attracted interest from “every big club in the world”, highlighting the growing attention surrounding the defender.
However, his club are understood to view the academy graduate as ‘unsellable’ a description that reflects his importance to the club rather than a guarantee that he will never be sold.
Alonso praises Acheampong's development
Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso recently praised Acheampong's progress, believing the defender has taken an important step forward in his development.
The youngster has made six appearances for Chelsea this season and has also impressed at international level with England Under-21s.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea's Premier League fixture against Bournemouth, Alonso highlighted the maturity Acheampong has shown in recent months.
“He has taken a step forward,” Alonso said. “He is playing more maturely and more aggressively, and is knowing what it takes to compete in the Premier League.”
The Chelsea manager also made it clear that Acheampong would continue to receive opportunities as the campaign progresses.
“He is on that journey as he has great potential and great qualities. He has played and he will play again.”
Those comments underline why Chelsea are reluctant to lose a player they believe has the ability to become an important first-team figure.
Why Arsenal could be interested
Acheampong's versatility and potential make him an attractive prospect, with the defender continuing to gain experience at senior level despite his age.
Arsenal have invested in young talent in recent seasons, and the reported interest suggests they could be monitoring the Chelsea defender's situation.
However, any potential deal would likely be complicated by Chelsea's stance and the player's importance to Alonso's plans.
With several clubs reportedly keeping tabs on Acheampong, Chelsea could face growing attention if his development continues at its current pace.
Chelsea determined to keep hold of their prospect?
Acheampong has progressed through Chelsea's academy and is now working towards establishing himself as a regular at Stamford Bridge.
Alonso's public backing suggests the defender remains firmly in his plans, while the club's reported view that he is ‘unsellable’ highlights how highly he is regarded internally.
For Arsenal, any move would therefore appear far from straightforward.
Although interest has been reported, there is no confirmation of a formal bid, and Chelsea's position could prove decisive in determining whether the defender becomes available.
For now, Acheampong's immediate focus will be on continuing his development and making the most of the opportunities coming his way under Alonso.
