Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Sun 17 May 2026 12:53, UK

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Newcastle United have likely missed out on any chance to lure Chelsea youngster Josh Acheampong away from Stamford Bridge.

The Magpies may have hoped to repeat the signing of Lewis Hall, who has been superb since arriving from the London club in 2023.

Acheampong enjoyed his breakthrough earlier this season under Enzo Maresca at Chelsea, but has been largely resigned to the bench in the months since.

Having also lost his place in the FA Cup squad, remaining on the bench for both the semi-final and the final despite starting the round of 16, it has been suggested that the 20-year-old could push for a move away.

But Newcastle transfer chiefs will likely have to look elsewhere this summer, after the appointment of Xabi Alonso at Chelsea.

Josh Acheampong a perfect fit for Xabi Alonso’s system

Football Insider exclusively revealed in March that Chelsea did not want to sell Acheampong this summer, with him under contract until 2029.

But the Blues would have been left in a difficult position had the England youth international pushed for a move away,

Newcastle may well have been among several clubs interested, with the young defender showing great promise in his appearances earlier in the season.

New Chelsea manager Alonso is likely well aware of Acheampong’s talent, and, on paper, he is a perfect fit for the Spaniard’s system.

The 20-year-old, a hybrid right-back and centre-back, would slot straight into the 3-4-2-1 that the 44-year-old favoured during his time with Bayer Leverkusen.

The former Liverpool midfielder transitioned to more of a four-back at Real Madrid, but his tactics consistently demand a high technical level.

Acheampong still has some way to go, but the talent he has already portrayed is likely more than enough to convince Alonso to keep him around.

Alonso on Chelsea squad

More than anyone, Alonso will be aware of the need for massive work on the Chelsea squad before next season.

The Blues have had a dismal campaign and may not even qualify for any level of European football.

But Alonso is a pull for a potential transfer target in himself, with the Spaniard carrying a great reputation and an iconic status within the game.

“From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition,” he told Chelsea’s website on Sunday.

“We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.

“There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club and it will be my great honour to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies.”