Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has urged the Blues to strengthen their goalkeeping department by signing Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, insisting the club needs an upgrade on current number one Robert Sanchez ahead of the new season.
Speaking about CHELSEA‘s squad, Mikel made it clear that he believes improving the goalkeeper position should be one of the club’s priorities. While acknowledging Sanchez’s efforts since arriving at Stamford Bridge, the former Nigeria international argued that Chelsea need a goalkeeper capable of consistently producing match-winning performances if they are to challenge for major honours.
Mikel singled out Trafford as an ideal candidate, claiming the England international possesses the qualities needed to become Chelsea’s long-term first-choice goalkeeper. Trafford has been linked with uncertainty over his future after reports suggested he is keen to secure regular first-team football, with reports he is on the verge of joining Leeds.
But Mikel has told Chelsea to make a move and sign Trafford: ‘I’ve said it so many times that Sanchez is not that guy. He is not that guy that will win us trophies,’ ex-Chelsea midfielder Obi Mikel said on The Obi One Podcast.
‘Everybody knows that! I can’t keep repeating myself here every time, every season, week in, week out.
‘I’m sure Xabi Alonso knows that, the club knows that. Why can’t we rectify that?
‘We’re building a solid team right now, we’re bringing in players that can help improve the squad.
‘It’s the one place that every CHELSEA fan is crying out for, not just me. Every Chelsea fan is crying out for that position.’
Chelsea have yet to indicate whether they intend to make a move, while there has been no official confirmation that negotiations are underway. However, with the transfer window still open and the club continuing to assess areas of the squad that could be strengthened, the goalkeeper position remains one that could attract attention before the deadline.
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