Despite Robert Sanchez’s improved form for Chelsea, Liam Rosenior is still eyeing a new goalkeeper and Brighton’s Bert Verbruggen has emerged as a transfer priority.
It was Chelsea that raided Brighton for their no.1 goalkeeper just three years ago, landing Sanchez from the Seagulls for a £25m fee. But Sanchez has failed to convince since moving to West London in 2023.
While his form has improved, the Spanish goalkeeper reminded everyone that he still has an error in him. His two howlers against Arsenal ultimately cost Chelsea a place at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final.
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Chelsea seem to have decided that a new goalkeeper is a priority in the summer. The Blues have been strongly linked with Milan’s Mike Maignan, but the Frenchman has since signed a new AC Milan contract.
Chelsea learn Bert Verbruggen will cost double Sanchez’s fee
According to a report from TeamTalk, Chelsea are interested in raiding Brighton for a goalkeeper once again. This time, Chelsea want to sign Dutch goalkeeper Bert Verbruggen, but they face competition.
Southampton FC v Brighton & Hove Albion FC - Premier League
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Indeed, Vincent Kompany wants him as a replacement for Manuel Neuer at Bayern Munich. Tottenham and Newcastle are also interested, but they have fallen behind Chelsea because of one simple reason.
Both sides look unlikely to qualify for next season’s Champions League spots. TeamTalk state that the Seagulls want a £50m fee for the goalkeeper they signed for little over £16m. Chelsea are willing to pay.
Indeed, the report claims sporting director Paul Winstanley has approved the deal. Now, all that hinges on a deal is Verbruggen’s pick between Bayern and Chelsea, and Champions League qualification is crucial.
What are Chelsea’s other options in goal?
Filip Jorgensen has impressed Rosenior since the latter arrived at Stamford Bridge, and the new Chelsea gaffer has started the former Villarreal man in two of his 10 games, against Charlton and then Pafos.
Does Jorgensen deserve to start over Sanchez?
Jorgensen linked with West Ham and Leverkusen
But injury came at the wrong time for the £20m recruit from Villarreal, who was crucial in Chelsea’s run to the Europa Conference League final under Enzo Maresca. Mike Penders is currently on loan at Strasbourg.
Rosenior is known to be a fan of Penders, having worked with him during the first half of the season, and when he returns to Stamford Bridge, he is likely to be given a chance given his ability with the ball.
But Chelsea fix their problems with cash, and a big signing in goal is expected. Verbruggen has proven himself in the Premier League and would be a stunning signing if Chelsea can see off the competition.
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