- Chelsea’s decision on Acheampong
- Acheampong fit at Newcastle
- Livramento future
Newcastle United are reportedly showing interest in signing Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong amid talk of Tino Livramento heading for the exit door.
The Magpies have their sights set on the Chelsea defender, who has attracted interest across Europe. The 19-year-old was close to a loan deal, which did not materialise due to Levi Colwill’s ACL injury. This led the Blues’ former manager, Enzo Maresca, to keep the player for this campaign.
The youngster can play both centre and full-back positions. Additionally, Chelsea saw the English defender as a precious talent and planned to extend his contract until 2029. However, the decision changed later.
Despite relative inexperience, Acheampong has been getting the attention of European giants Real Madrid, followed by Premier League elite Liverpool and Newcastle. German interest from Borussia Dortmund has also shown admiration for the defender.
Will Acheampong be the ideal fit for Newcastle?
Still in his teenage years until May, Acheampong is a bright talent, and Newcastle are currently looking to rebuild with veteran right-back Kieran Trippier and Livramento potentially leaving. The youngster would be perfect to fill the gaps with his versatility. Moreover, the Magpies can play him centre-back in a back two or three, as well as at right-back or left-back.
In the Premier League, the 19-year-old has made 12 appearances and 25 across all competitions.
| Player | Acheampong | Livramento |
| Minutes played | 572′ | 1164′ |
| Goals scored | 1 | 0 |
| Successful dribbles per 90 | 1.57 | 0.85 |
| Accurate passes per 90 | 64 | 38.3 |
| Successful tackles per 90 | 0.94 | 1.16 |
| Clearances per 90 | 2.99 | 2.63 |
| Interceptions per 90 | 1.57 | 0.46 |
| Blocks per 90 | 0.16 | 0.15 |
| Headed clearances per 90 | 1.73 | 1.16 |
Eddie Howe’s side has been lacklustre defensively, conceding 45 goals in 31 Premier League games. The player’s stats show he would be a good option to bolster the backline next season.
Additionally, Acheampong has been better in front of the goal scoring twice, compared to Livramento’s one. Despite Livramento’s success at Tyneside, the lack of Champions League football has put the player in a position to rethink the future.
Newcastle has seen massive success from Chelsea youth, with Lewis Hall and Livramento finding success at St. James Park. This formula can continue by bringing the 19-year-old to repeat the magic.
Where does Livramento go?
Livramento has not had a free-flowing 25/26 season due to the injuries. The 23-year-old has made only 22 appearances in all competitions. Last season, the English defender was a standout performer, making 45 appearances and even helping win the Carabao Cup.
According to Football Insider, Livramento might move to Manchester City. Pep’s side has been monitoring the defender for over a year. Additionally, Arsenal have also joined the race. Now the choice is in the youngsters’ hands to choose between the Emirates and Etihad.
