Josh Acheampong’s camp is 'cautious' about entering new contract negotiations with Chelsea without 'clearer evidence' that the young defender can be a regular starter, according to reports.

In the two games since the international break, Acheampong has played two full 90-minute matches for Chelsea against Bournemouth and Everton. His versatility to play both as centre-back and right-back likely played a big part, putting him ahead of Wesley Fofana in the pecking order.

Xabi Alonso has given Pedro Neto a lot of freedom to join the attack as a right wing-back. Even off the ball, the Portugal international has not necessarily had to drop back to form a back five. 

Acheampong’s ability to operate as a conventional right full-back in a back four is key to the tactical flexibility.

Will Acheampong therefore continue to be a regular starter for Chelsea going forward? It is too early to tell.

Acheampong certainly has the frame and the technical skills to be a long-term key player for Chelsea. The Blues also believe in his potential, having reportedly turned down enquiries for the 20-year-old last summer, including from Manchester United.

Tying him to a long contract would help Chelsea fend off more potential interest in their academy graduate. His current deal, which he signed in December 2024, runs until the summer of 2029 and will enter its final two years next summer.

According to the BBC, the idea of offering Acheampong a new seven-year deal has been “floated” at Chelsea despite no active negotiations taking place.

However, the young defender’s camp reportedly remains cautious about rushing into negotiations for a new deal until there is “clearer evidence” that he can become a regular starter at the club.

This season’s development points to a positive direction, at least. Acheampong has featured eight times for Chelsea under Alonso, six of which as a starter. In comparison, he made 14 starts from 30 appearances last season.

There are other factors in favour of Acheampong’s increased minutes this season.

Alonso’s decision to deploy a three-at-the-back is obviously one of them, since it opens up an extra spot for a centre-back. The manager’s midfield plans for Reece James are arguably another one. Under different circumstances, the Chelsea captain could have competed for the right centre-back spot, blocking Acheampong’s pathway.

That said, there is no guarantee that the situation will remain favourable to Acheampong in the future. At this point last year, Estevao Willian looked certain to be a regular starter for Chelsea, but he is now struggling for rotation minutes.

If there is a good opportunity to convince Acheampong to sign a new deal, this may be it.