Chelsea are expected to make multiple signings in this summer transfer window. How many remains a topic up for debate. Some have suggested that it could be as few as two starting-level players. Other outlets have claimed that as many as five could be brought in, depending on departures.
One of the positions that is often recognised as a weakness in this team is the goalkeeper spot. Robert Sanchez can be a world-class goalkeeper on his day. But then, he seems like the kind of player who depends on his confidence and can have massive downturns in form as well.
We saw the perfect example of this recently. At the start of the season, he was arguably the best goalkeeper in the Premier League. But once he lost his form, he ended up getting dropped. That is how much things can fluctuate with the Spaniard’s performances. That is not someone you can depend on though. And it would not be a surprise if Chelsea are secretly working behind the scenes to bring in another goalkeeper.
According to Corriere dello Sport (via Roma Press), Chelsea have reportedly made their move in the last few hours. A proposal of around €50 million was reportedly put on the table to try and sign Mile Svilar, however, it hasn’t swayed AS Roma. The club claim that the goalkeeper is not available for transfer.
Chelsea make failed bid to sign Mile Svilar from AS Roma
Of course, things can change quickly in football. A bigger offer can change the minds of clubs. The player can end up pushing for an exit when a top opportunity presents itself.
So, it would be wrong to think that this move is definitely off the table now. But one would imagine that it will take a lot to convince AS Roma to part ways with someone who they clearly view very highly.
Svilar has been one of the best goalkeepers in Serie A in recent years. Chelsea were first linked with him a few months back and if reports in Italy are accurate, they made their move to try and sign him.
It remains to be seen if they will make another move or just move on from the situation. The club do have some other interesting options at goalkeeper already coming through the ranks.
Who could be Chelsea’s next number one?
Sanchez is expected to remain the first-choice next season, if no other goalkeeper is signed. On the other hand, Filip Jorgensen seems to be pushing for an exit in search of regular game time.
Now, let us not overlook the situation of Mike Penders either. He has enjoyed an excellent loan spell at Strasbourg.
Some fans would like to see him spend another year there and continue to get first-team football. But then there are those who believe that it is time for Penders to return to the Chelsea fold.
One would imagine that he would initially be a cup goalkeeper before being moved into the first-team spot over time, if he can prove himself. But then, there are also suggestions that he could be in contention to start.
Obviously, it is going to be a fresh start for everybody under Xabi Alonso. If he feels that Penders is a better fit for his system, then it would make sense to move him ahead of Sanchez in the pecking order immediately.
What would that mean for the future of Sanchez though? It is hard to imagine that the Spaniard would be happy with the idea of being the backup option and might start pushing for an exit himself if such signs appear.
