One of Xabi Alonso’s priorities this summer will be a new goalkeeper. Well, it appears Chelsea are moving quickly to bring in a new shot-stopper, namely French ace Ewen Jaouen.
The form of Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen’s inconsistency, both in his performances and in being able to remain fit, have left Chelsea with the need to sort out their goalkeeping options this summer.
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Jorgensen has asked to leave Chelsea this summer, while Sanchez is a target for Saudi Arabian clubs. The return of Mike Penders from Strasbourg softens the blow, but it is unclear if he will be Chelsea’s no.1.
Chelsea have compiled a six-man shortlist that includes Jordan Pickford, Robin Roefs and plenty of other top-tier goalkeepers. But it appears the Blues are not stopping there, with Reims’ Jaouen a real target.
Newcastle, Real Madrid and Chelsea: The fight for Jaouen
According to a report from Canal Plus, Jaouen is a target for Real Madrid as the Spanish giants look for a long-term replacement to take over from Thibaut Courtois when he eventually leaves the Bernabeu.
It comes after an impressive season in France’s second tier, which saw Jaouen clock up 15 clean sheets in 34 appearances and concede just 35 goals. But Real Madrid are not the only side Jaouen has impressed.
Mike Penders of Strasbourg celebrates
Photo by Sathire Kelpa/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Indeed, Sacha Tavolieri recently reported that Newcastle were closing in on a deal for the France U21 goalkeeper. But the report from Canal Plus claims Jaouen has actually visited Chelsea’s training ground.
Chelsea are keen to make a move despite BlueCo’s promise that they will target older, more experienced players. It is believed Reims want as much as £21.5m for Jaouen, even if he’s never played in the top tier.
Jaouen is a top talent but he’s not what Chelsea need right now
Even if he’s not played at the top, France know they have a future no.1 on their hands. This is a keeper with huge potential, but Chelsea’s summer window cannot be focused on bringing in young talents.
Chelsea v Fulham - Premier League
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
If Jaouen is signed alongside a senior goalkeeper, then that makes more sense. But while Chelsea have Penders returning to London, the need for Jaouen seems needless other than just signing potential.
Chelsea should focus on getting in a new no.1 for Xabi Alonso next season and give Penders the chance to play back-up as the club’s no.2. Once that is sorted, signing Jaouen and loaning him out could work.
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