Manchester United are reportedly planning to launch an ambitious swoop to sign Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong, as per transfer journalist Ben Jacobs.
The Red Devils currently have Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt as options to deploy in the right centre-back position. However, Yoro has struggled to find his feet in the Premier League since joining from LOSC Lille a couple of years ago.
Maguire, on the other hand, has reached the twilight of his career and his existing deal is set to run until next summer. He has even had a few fitness problems in recent years.
De Ligt, meanwhile, has shown glimpses of his qualities since joining from Bayern Munich but has been out injured for several months. So, it appears United are considering signing a new right-footed defender.
Speaking on the United Stand YouTube channel, Jacobs states that Man Utd are interested in signing Acheampong but Chelsea consider him untouchable.
Apart from the youngster, Man Utd have identified Southampton star Taylor Harwood-Bellis as an option and have held internal discussions over this deal. United have even been offered the chance to sign Tosin Adarabioyo as a backup option.
Acheampong is valued at around £21m by Transfermarkt and still has a contract until 2029. Therefore, the West London club aren’t in any rush to sell him.
Acheampong to Man Utd
After coming through the Blues’ youth system, Acheampong has struggled to break into the starting line-up. But he started the opening two games against Fulham and Luton in the Premier League and EFL Cup, respectively, this season.
The youngster is a right-footed versatile defender as he is comfortable in the centre-back and right-back positions. He is quick, strong, good in the air, comfortable playing out from the back, and is efficient in defensive contributions.
Acheampong is a talented player and possesses high potential. Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd with a view to the long-term future should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the 20-time English champions eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services before the September 1st transfer deadline.
