Chelsea make RECORD bid for penalty specialist
Robin Bairner
- Updated: 19 Aug 2023 09:45 BST
- 3 min read
Chelsea are ready to make Djordje Petrovic the most expensive goalkeeper in MLS history as the Stamford Bridge side seek a solution in the transfer market to their goalkeeping issues.
The Blues have launched a €17.5 million (£15m) bid for the New England Revolution shot-stopper, according to The Telegraph.
Petkovic has previously been linked with Manchester United this month, but it is the Stamford Bridge side that have taken the leap to make an official approach. Previously, the likes of Nantes and Nottingham Forest had bids rejected, albeit these offers were thought to be around half of what the Blues are willing to play.
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Chelsea presently only have one available senior goalkeeping option, new signing Robert Sanchez.
Mauricio Pochettino’s team previously sold Edouard Mendy to Al-Ahli of the Saudi Pro League, while Kepa Arrizabalaga has been loaned to Real Madrid as a stand in for the long-term injured Thibaut Courtois.
Last weekend, the Blues had rookie backup Lucas Bergstrom deputising for Sanchez, but Pochettino is eager to draft in a more experienced option.
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Petrovic’s impressive credentials
Petrovic is the player who has apparently been earmarked, with the Serbia international having quickly gained a strong reputation since moving to MLS from Cukaricki.
The 23-year-old has been named in the league’s All-Star team while he is the fasted MLS goalkeeper in history to five penalty saves. Indeed, he has stopped five of 16 penalties since moving to the US.
Furthermore, his shot-stopping credentials are impressive while he is also comfortable with the ball at his feet – a fact that is appreciated by many leading clubs.
Chelsea are set to go into Sunday’s encounter against West Ham lacking depth on the bench, while they will also host Luton and AFC Wimbledon in the Premier League and EFL Cup respectively before the end of the transfer window on 1 September.
By the time that rolls around, Pochettino will expect to have another goalkeeper on his books, and the signs are that will be Petrovic.
