Liverpool handed fresh boost in pursuit of surprise Chelsea talent: Reports
Liverpool have reportedly received a boost in their attempts to sign Chelsea youngster Josh Acheampong on the back of new reports of the Blues' stance. The England U-20 international has been frozen out at Stamford Bridge following a contract dispute, as they want him to pen a new deal.
Acheampong has emerged as one of the leading talents in the Chelsea academy, having featured for the club's U-21 side since the age of 17. Still only 18, the talented right-back has made two senior appearances for the club, including one in the Carabao Cup this season.
Football Insider reports that the Blues have decided against handing Josh Acheampong any further minutes at any level unless he signs a new deal. The teenager is currently contracted to the club until 2026, having signed his first professional contract in 2023. True to their words, Chelsea have kept Acheampong from featuring for any of their sides since September, with the youngster in limbo.
Acheampong's situation at Stamford Bridge could be seized on by Liverpool, as per the latest reports from Football Insider. The Reds successfully poached one young talent in Rio Ngumoha from the Blues in the summer and may be open to repeating the trick.
Arne Slot's side are keen on the 18-year-old, who is aware that he is behind both Reece James and Malo Gusto in the pecking order at the club. Negotiations remain open between the Blues and the youngster, but the continued stand-off provides an opportunity for Liverpool to convince the teenager.
Acheampong has been at Chelsea since the age of eight and has a huge fan in Enzo Maresca due to his versatility as a right-back and centre-back. A move to Liverpool or abroad remains on the cards, but the Blues are keen to keep one of their brightest talent.
Liverpool and Chelsea target put up for sale by Spanish giants - Reports
Real Madrid have reportedly put star midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni up for sale as they look to rebuild their midfield. The Frenchman struggled in his side's El Clasico humbling at the hands of Barcelona as they slumped to a 4-0 defeat on home soil earlier this month.
Los Blancos are prepared to sell Tchouameni for a reported €90 million, having signed the France international for around €80 million from Monaco in 2022. The 24-year-old has been a long-time target for both English clubs, and this represents an opportunity for them.
Chelsea tried to sign him from AS Monaco before eventually deciding against it, while Liverpool showed their interest in him under Jurgen Klopp. Fichajes.net reports that the Real Madrid board have chosen to sell the midfielder after he lost the trust of the fans amid unsatisfactory performances.