Newcastle transfer target Josh Acheampong has been “frozen out” by Chelsea, according to The Athletic.
It was reported last week that the Magpies, Liverpool, Tottenham and Real Madrid were keeping close tabs on the right-back’s situation at Stamford Bridge.
The story has taken a new twist with the Blues now having decided to prevent Acheampong from playing for the Under 21s or the senior side until he puts pen to paper on a new contract.
The teenager’s current deal expires in 2026 but the London club don’t want him to reach the final twelve months without an extension being signed.
Acheampong has not played for Chelsea for nearly a month
The Athletic claims that the defender “is not injured”, having played for England’s Under 20s against Italy and the Czech Republic in the last international break.
However, Acheampong has not played for Chelsea’s first team or development squad since coming on as a substitute in the 5-0 win over Barrow in the Carabao Cup last month.
It has now been confirmed that the reason the fullback hasn’t played for his club is down to his contract situation.
Will Newcastle make their move?
Eddie Howe’s side will soon be looking for reinforcements on the right-hand side of defence. Kieran Trippier is out of contract at the end of the season and it is widely expected that the 34-year-old will either be sold in January or let go on a free in July.
The club’s interest in Acheampong, therefore, makes a lot of sense. He could potentially compete with another former Chelsea academy graduate, Tino Livramento, for a place in Newcastle’s starting lineup.
With first-team football on the table, a move to St James’ Park may prove to be very attractive, rather than staying at Chelsea or joining the likes of Liverpool or Spurs where he may struggle to get game time.
Find out who is in Newcastle United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here