Why Richard Hughes targets Chelsea's 20‑year‑old defender

Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, has overseen a record‑breaking spending spree that saw the British transfer record broken twice for Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, yet the Reds’ league form has faltered, prompting the club to scout further reinforcements this season.

Josh Acheampong is a 20‑year‑old centre‑back at Chelsea who featured in 30 games across all competitions and contributed two goals this term. He has already played 21 Premier League matches despite his age.

David Lynch said Liverpool were in contact with Acheampong before he signed his new Chelsea contract, describing the club’s approach as a ‘small play’ and noting that Liverpool could find a role for him as a centre‑half. He added that the defender ‘seems like an option that would make sense and tick some boxes’ for Liverpool.

Liverpool fans are pressing for a new centre‑back because Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet are viewed as too inexperienced to partner Virgil van Dijk this season. Joe Gomez’s injury record also makes him an unreliable option, leaving Iraola to consider alternatives.

Acheampong’s ability to operate as a right‑back adds tactical flexibility, addressing another area Liverpool need to upgrade. His versatility could allow him to cover multiple defensive positions.

With several transfer decisions pending this summer, Hughes can wait for a suitable offer, provided Chelsea do not demand an extortionate fee for Acheampong. If the conditions are met, the Reds could revive their interest in the young defender.

The record‑breaking spending under Hughes also produced Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, but neither player has restored Liverpool to the top of the Premier League. There were moments when the club’s poor form raised doubts about Champions League qualification, though the team ultimately avoided that outcome.