Chelsea has firmly rebuffed an approach from Crystal Palace for teenage defender Josh Acheampong, ensuring the academy graduate remains at Stamford Bridge for the remainder of the 2025/2026 campaign. The Guardian reports that the Blues dismissed a formal bid from the Eagles as the winter transfer window approached its final hours on Monday night.
Despite a frantic search for defensive reinforcements following the sale of Marc Guéhi to Manchester City earlier this winter, the Selhurst Park hierarchy failed to convince Chelsea to part with their 19-year-old prospect.
The decision forces Crystal Palace to explore alternative targets before tonight’s registration deadline to satisfy manager Oliver Glasner’s requirement for backline depth. Acheampong remains a highly regarded asset within Liam Rosenior’s tactical setup, having secured a promotion to the senior squad in early 2024. Although he did not see game time during Chelsea’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over West Ham United this past weekend, the England Under-21 international continues to provide essential cover for the Blues’ defensive rotation as they compete across multiple domestic and European fronts.
Acheampong’s versatility across the backline makes him a vital component of Chelsea’s long-term strategy, especially as the club looks to integrate more homegrown talent into the first team. Having made several senior appearances since his debut in 2024, the tall defender has already demonstrated his capability at the highest level, most notably scoring his first senior goal against Nottingham Forest earlier this season. With Chelsea currently fighting for a top-four finish, the club views his presence as non-negotiable despite the lucrative interest from their South London rivals.
