Real Madrid plot surprise January swoop for Chelsea teenage sensation: Reports 

According to a report by the Independent, Real Madrid are plotting a move for Chelsea teenage sensation Josh Acheampong. The 18-year-old has played two senior games for the west London side.

The report suggests that the European champions consider the young defender as a makeshift option at right-back following Dani Carvajal's injury. He is contracted to the Stamford Bridge-based side till 2026 and is believed to be a key part of the club's future plans.

Real Madrid have been blighted by injuries and are light in their defensive options, particularly at right-back after injuries to Carvajal and young option Joan Martinez. The 15-time UEFA Champions League winners will hope they can convince Chelsea to part with the defender, who has a valuation of €300,000 as per Transfermarkt.

Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United are also reported to be keeping tabs on the defender and could get involved in the race for Acheampong's signature in the winter window.

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"I would not be surprised if they got an offer" - Pundit tips Real Madrid to sign Chelsea star

Graeme Souness has tipped Real Madrid to sign Chelsea star Cole Palmer. The England international has been impressive for the west London side since he arrived from Manchester City last season.

Palmer joined the Londoner for a reported €47 million fee from the reigning Premier League champions last year and has bagged 31 goals and 20 assists across 54 games. His performances have impressed Souness, who told MailOnline:

"I’m sure there are other players Man City could have cashed in on. Chelsea paid £40m for Palmer but if Real Madrid come knocking next summer and he is still at the level he is showing, I would not be surprised if they got an offer of £150m for him. He’s a young man, so we’re going early on this call, but if this is Palmer’s level and he can be consistently this good, he’s going to be a top man."

The former Liverpool midfielder concluded by hailing Palmer's ability, saying:

"He has got silky skills, athleticism and a fabulous football brain. There’s simply nothing to dislike about him. He’s 22. At that age, no one ought to be that good. I like his temperament, too."

Chelsea will look to continue their fine start to the new campaign after the international break when they face table-topping Liverpool at Anfield on October 20. The west London outfit currently sit four points behind their opponents, who top the table with 18 points.