Crystal Palace are considering a move for Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong to Selhurst Park, according to Sky Sports.
Palace are looking for defensive reinforcements following the departure of Mark Gueye and are keeping an eye on Achim Pong, who is already attracting attention.
The young Crystal Palace target is an excellent defender with excellent game reading and pace.
He’s great in the air, he’s great on the ground and his future is bright. He can play as a centre-back or right-back and can also play as a midfielder on occasion.
Crystal Palace are investigating whether Chelsea will accept a loan deal or consider a permanent sale.
However, the Eagles are pushing hard for the lead, and rightly so.
Achimpong played a key role in the Blues winning the Europa League and gaining some Premier League experience.
The 19-year-old would be an excellent option for the south London club if they can get Chelsea to make concessions.
Interestingly, the Eagles face Chelsea at Selhurst Park this weekend, which could be an opportunity for the two club hierarchy to seal a deal for the youngster.
The Palace should be prepared to work hard to make this happen.
Acheampong is the foundation of their recent success. He is young, fearless, athletic and tactically intelligent.
He has shown maturity beyond his years and, given the right circumstances, has the tools to develop into a truly world-class defender.
With regular playing time and responsibility, Selhurst Park could be the ideal stage for this progression, with Palace looking to secure a long-term solution at the heart of the defence.
If Chelsea ultimately refuse to budge on the Achim Pong issue, Crystal Palace must have strong reserves. Trevoh Chalobah fits the bill perfectly.
With Chelsea expected to pursue another centre-back, Chalobah could be available.
His Premier League experience, versatility and composure will bring immediate stability to the team. Regardless, the Palace must take decisive action.