Manchester United approached Chelsea during the summer transfer window to inquire about defender Josh Acheampong, as reported by talkSPORT. The Red Devils have endured a difficult start to the current Premier League campaign under Michael Carrick, collecting only seven points from their opening seven matches.
Chelsea blocked approaches for untouchable star
According to talkSPORT, Manchester United were among several clubs from England and Europe that made enquiries for the England Under-21 international over the summer. However, Chelsea rejected these offers after declaring the 20-year-old defender “untouchable.” Following this interest, Chelsea are reportedly preparing to reward Acheampong with a lucrative new contract to fend off potential suitors, especially after he appeared in six of their first seven league fixtures.
Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso praised the youngster’s development and confirmed that he remains an important part of the squad. Alonso stated, “He has taken a step forward. He is playing more maturely and more aggressively, and is knowing what it takes to compete in the Premier League. He is on that journey as he has great potential and great qualities. He has played and he will play again.”
Pressure mounts on Carrick at Old Trafford
Manchester United bolstered their midfield options ahead of the season with the arrivals of Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos, and Carlos Baleba, but supporters voiced frustration over a postponed defensive rebuild. Aside from missing out on Acheampong, the club also monitored Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall among other left-back targets.
With the team struggling for form under Carrick, Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has suggested alternative managerial options should the club make a change. Shearer told Betfair that Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler “would be a good replacement,” while also mentioning Eddie Howe and Antonio Conte as potential candidates for the Old Trafford hotseat.
