Chelsea will need to strengthen all across the pitch this summer. But how will they do that? With no Champions League football or front-of-shirt sponsor again, record losses posted and a fine from UEFA last summer, it would be safe to assume that the club are not in a great financial situation. Yet, it feels like they must bring in fresh faces if the Xabi Alonso appointment is to mean anything.
The first thing that the club might need to do is build a spine for the team. At least another centre-back is very much on the wish list. If Enzo Fernandez leaves, which is looking likely, a midfielder will need to be brought in as well. Another striker as competition to Joao Pedro would be ideal.
But what are the club’s plans for the goalkeeper position? Are they planning to continue with Robert Sanchez, who looks world-class on one day and completely lost the next? Are they ready to integrate Mike Penders into the first-team already? Or are they trying to sign another goalkeeper?
If it is the third, Chelsea have been told who they need to sign. It is Borussia Dortmund’s number one, Gregor Kobel. According to talkSPORT, European football expert Andy Brassell said:
“If you can combine experience and a new top-class goalkeeper, I think most Chelsea fans would say that’s the first one you’ve got to go and get. For me, it’s Gregor Kobel of Borussia Dortmund.
“He’s a senior player, a great leader and just one of the very best goalkeepers in the world. So, I think for me, he’s a shoo-in.”
Would Kobel be a good signing for Chelsea?
Kobel has been the number one for Borussia Dortmund for quite some time now. He is 28 years of age and if he wants a different experience, it might be time to consider a change of scenery.
Interestingly, Chelsea have been linked with a move for Kobel in the past as well. But nothing ended up materialising at that point in time.
Kobel remains one of the best goalkeepers in the Bundesliga. So, Alonso should know about his qualities well from his time managing Bayer Leverkusen.
Strengths and weaknesses of Kobel
Having faced an xGOT of 40.04 this season, he has conceded 34 times, essentially saving six goals. He is also someone who does not make too many errors, something that Chelsea’s options in goal do, sometimes often.
But then, it is not all brilliant when it comes to Kobel. There are several areas where he is average or slightly above average.
He is not excellent with the ball at his feet. That is something that a goalkeeper needs in an Alonso team. Also, he is not the most dominant when it comes to commanding his box. So, if Chelsea do sign Kobel, it would come with a fair share of risk, especially keeping the system and the style of English football in mind.