Chelsea successfully convince Josh Acheampong to sign new deal after Real Madrid transfer interest

It is thought that Chelsea told Acheampong that he wouldn’t play for the first team or development squad until the academy star signed a new contract.

But Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca hand Acheampong his first start for the club in the Blues’ 3-1 Conference League win over Astana last week.

Maresca said ahead of that game that an agreement between Chelsea and Acheampong was ‘close’ – and it appears that the deal is now done.

The Chelsea boss is a huge fan of Acheampong and was desperate to keep him in west London.

Speaking in October, Maresca said: ‘I think https://ufabet999.app Josh potentially can become a top player.

He is still 18, so still very young, so many things can change for him, but he can potentially be very important thing for Chelsea.

‘It’s so important for the club that our intention is not to lose him. The first thing we need to do is to find a solution for his future.

‘The most important thing at this stage is to get minutes, enjoy and to play football.

‘For him, I don’t know the people who are trying to solve the problem, if they are helping him or not. I really like Josh and I would really like to have him here with us.’

It started for me in east London, where I’ve always lived. My earliest football memories are playing with my friends and cousins in the park. Now I’m in America and playing for Chelsea.

That means a lot. So did my professional debut. I was more excited than nervous when I came on against Tottenham last season. I had been on the bench a few times so I just wanted it to happen. My family were there as well so I was just proud.

This tour has helped me to get to know the guys better. I’ve enjoyed making new friends – we had two weeks of training before which help and I’ve around the group a while so it’s helped me settle.

Being around the first team is great exposure for me. I’ve really enjoyed working with this squad. The coaches are all really nice, are understanding and they have given me a lot of advice.

I have spoken to Enzo Maresca; he’s been really helpful and supportive. He said if I ever have any questions to just ask him and be open. As a coach, he’s really detailed and precise. He wants us to play a certain way. I really like it. As a person, he’s really happy. He’s always smiling!