'I want him to stay with us' - Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca slams door shut on young star leaving Blues this summer despite interest from Premier League & European rivals

Acheampong, who caught attention with a starting role in Chelsea’s recent Club World Cup victory over Esperance, has emerged as one of the most promising talents from the Blues’ academy. His rapid rise last season under Maresca has only intensified speculation, but the manager has reinforced his stance that the youngster is an integral part of Chelsea’s future.

Having signed a fresh five-year contract last year, Acheampong is viewed by the club as a long-term asset. The only scenario where he could be temporarily moved is through a loan deal, and only if both player and club agree it is the right step in his progression.

Addressing rumours linking Acheampong with other clubs, Maresca acknowledged that interest in the player was unsurprising, but reiterated that Chelsea remain equally invested in his future.

“The clubs that you mentioned, they like Josh, but we also like Josh,” Maresca said. “Any club likes good players. My plan with Josh is quite clear. I said many times that I really like Josh. I think he potentially can be a top defender for this club. It’s on him to have the right timing to do things. We are full of young players here, full of talented players, even defenders. So I think the best plan for Josh is to be with us, and I’m very happy if he’s going to be with us.”

Maresca’s arrival at Stamford Bridge has been marked by a clear strategy to invest in and nurture young players. Acheampong is just one of several academy products being given the chance to prove themselves on the big stage, and the Italian coach is building a reputation for his patient, developmental approach.

Maresca also shed light on the club’s plans for Brazilian youngster Andrey Santos, who recently made his competitive debut off the bench against ES Tunis in the Club World Cup.

“Andrey is working with us, and he’s working well,” Maresca added. “He worked already with us last summer in preseason, so we know Andrey a little bit. His season was very good, but I think you need time to adapt. The important thing is he’s working well.

“In terms of position, I see Andrey in this moment as more of Enzo's (Fernandez’s) position than Moi's (Caicedo’s) or Romeo's (Lavia’s) position. The reason why is because we’re here for this tournament. but we also need to plan for next season in the Premier League, and in the Premier League first of all you need to be physically strong. So in this moment I see Andrey more as an attacking midfielder than a defensive midfielder.”

The focus now shifts to Chelsea’s next test as they prepare to face Benfica in the Club World Cup’s Round of 16 clash on Saturday in Charlotte.