Maresca to select Acheampong after contract breakthrough

Josh Acheampong is set to make his full debut for Chelsea after an apparent breakthrough in contract negotiations.

The 18-year-old, who has made two first-team appearances, both as a substitute, has been out of the picture amid doubts over his future at the club.

His contract expires in 2026 and Chelsea want him to sign a new deal. The likes of Real Madrid and Paris St-Germain have been linked with him.

It now appears an agreement is close.

He has been included in the squad for Thursday’s Uefa Conference League match in Kazakhstan against Astana and head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed on Wednesday morning that Acheampong is in line to start.

“He is in the squad and is probably going to play from the start,” said Maresca.

The Italian added: “With Josh, it is quite clear: the club love Josh, I love Josh, and we are trying to find an agreement with the player. We are close. We are almost there. But we will see.”

Other youngsters are also likely to be involved in the game.

Maresca said: “I think we are going to have one or two playing from the start. The rest, we will see.

“The message for the younger ones is just to enjoy the moment because it’s always nice to be with the first team and be involved in this kind of competition.”