Chelsea have finally made a move to strengthen their goalkeeping department – although it’s not a universally popular transfer.
The Blues sold Edouard Mendy to Saudi Arabia earlier in the summer and have since been looking out for a replacement to compete with Kepa Arrizabalaga for the number one shirt. They seem to have found their man in Robert Sanchez, who signs for €20m with a further €5m in bonuses also reported as part of the deal.
Sanchez had a long period as a highly rated keeper before losing his place in the Seagulls first team last season, and he comes to Stamford Bridge with a lot to prove. Our sporting directors chuntered out their usual platitudes about the signing:
“Robert has repeatedly proved himself in the Premier League and been capped by his country. We are excited to watch him work with Mauricio and his coaching team during the season ahead.”
Many fans will argue that signing a keeper to sit on the bench when we have such gaping holes in other parts of the team is a mistake, and yet more will say that he’s not enough of an upgrade on Kepa to be worth it.
But we’re got to give him a chance, and certainly more options can’t hurt Mauricio Pochettino as he looks to strengthen the whole squad.