UPDATE! Stoke are in talks to sign Shay Given, according to Sky Sources. Paving the way for Begovic’s exit?
UPDATE!
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Chelsea and Stoke have agreed a figure of £8m deal for Asmir Begovic. A move is looking imminent.
According to John Percy of The Telegraph, Chelsea have tabled a £6m bid for Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, as they look to find a replacement for Petr Cech as soon as they can.
Jose Mourinho conducted the move for the Bosnian international, and is hoping to have the deal wrapped up by the end of the week. Negotiations took place between the two clubs on Monday.
Holding firm, Stoke have rejected the Premier League champions’ initial offer, as they are holding out for £8m in this deal – whilst also being eager to take a player from West London on loan for next season.
However, Chelsea are expected to return with a new and improved bid for the shot-stopper later this week, wanting to complete the deal in the next 48 hours.
Mourinho sees Begovic as the perfect replacement for veteran Cech, who’s move to Arsenal was confirmed earlier today. The Portuguese boss will offer Begovic a new deal, with the salary included doubling his wages he receives at the Britannia Stadium.
Thibaut Courtois has quickly emerged as Mourinho’s no.1 goalkeeper in West London, but Begovic will be brought in for tough competition, and could possibly feature in cup fixtures, including the Champions League.
Manchester United could compete with the Blues for Begovic’s signature, with Stoke not going to stand in the way of the exit door.
The 28-year-old’s current contract under Mark Hughes only has 12 months remaining, with no signs of talks advancing with his current employers.
If Begovic does depart, Jack Butland could become Stoke’s no.1 goalkeeper from next season.
