Chelsea closing in on contract agreement with Real Madrid target

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed the Blues are close to an agreement over a new contract with young defender Josh Acheampong, who will likely start Thursday's Conference League clash with Astana.

18-year-old right-back Acheampong, who only signed a new contract back in January, was exiled from the club earlier this season amid a stand-off over fresh terms, sparking interest from Real Madrid in the process.

After several months of being blocked from representing Chelsea at any level, Acheampong returned to training in November as reports of progress in negotiations began to emerge.

A positive conclusion appears close as Maresca confirmed Acheampong is likely to be named in his starting lineup to face Astana.

"He's in the squad," Maresca said. "And probably he's going to play from the start.

"With Josh it's quite clear. We all love Josh. The club loves Josh. I love Josh. And we are trying to find an agreement with the players. We are close. We are almost there."

Acheampong is understood to have been concerned about the pathway to the senior side, where captain Reece James and the impressive Malo Gusto represent significant competition, and was initially reluctant to extend his deal while other clubs began to circle.

Chelsea remained tough in their stance and worked hard to present a clear vision for Acheampong's future at the club, and the reward of a new long-term extension now seems imminent.

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