Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs ahead of the summer transfer window, with the North East club slapping a £50m price tag on his head, according to journalist Alan Nixon.
The Blues could be set for a busy summer transfer window, looking to bring in players to improve Liam Rosenior's senior squad. Chelsea have heavily focused on signing young, up-and-coming players in recent years, but Rosenior's squad is vastly inexperienced, and more senior players might be necessary if they want to go to the next level.
Whether Chelsea's hierarchy will be willing to shift their recruitment much remains to be seen, but if they want to be challenging for the Champions League places without regular hiccups, bringing in some ready-made stars needs to be a priority.
Chelsea Eye Replacement Goalkeeper
robin roefs
According to a report from Nixon, Chelsea are in the race to sign Sunderland goalkeeper Roefs ahead of the transfer window. The Blues are believed to be searching for a new number one, and Sunderland would be willing to do business if the price is right.
Nixon claims it could take an offer in the region of £50m for Chelsea to secure his signature, while Roefs would be keen on a move if Rosenior's side seal Champions League qualification.
If Chelsea cough up the £50m and qualify for Europe's elite club competition, then it could be a relatively straightforward deal to get over the line. Whether they'd be willing to pay that price tag remains to be seen, but it appears that signing a goalkeeper has become a priority heading towards the summer.
Robert Sanchez Needs Replacing
robert sanchez-1
Robert Sanchez has shown signs of being a top-level Premier League goalkeeper during his career, but he's also shown plenty of inconsistency.
If Chelsea want to go to the next level and become a Premier League title contender, then bringing in a new number one would be a good start.
Whether Roefs is the answer or not remains to be seen, but he's certainly adapted to life in England seamlessly. The Sunderland goalkeeper is one of the main reasons why Regis Le Bris' side have punched above their weight this season, and he would certainly be a good signing for Chelsea.
Would Roefs Be an Upgrade on Sanchez?
Sunderland's Robin Roefs
Premier League - Sunderland v Aston Villa - Stadium of Light, Sunderland, Britain - September 21, 2025 Sunderland's Robin Roefs reacts Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT whether Roefs would be an upgrade on Sanchez for Chelsea, and they responded:
Roefs (23) is a rapidly improving keeper with strong shot-stopping and high save percentages and clean sheet rates in the 2025/26 Premier League with Sunderland.
He’s young with clear upside and recent Netherlands youth/under-21 recognition.
Sanchez (28) is experienced, has delivered 9+ clean sheets this season and is established as Chelsea’s No.1.
However, Sanchez has drawn criticism for errors, decision-making, and occasional inconsistency.
Roefs’ potential may exceed Sanchez’s current level long-term, but as of now Sanchez’s experience and consistency edge Roefs.