Chelsea are said to be in ‘regular’ contact with the representatives of Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana as question marks continue to be raised over the form of Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Kepa has struggled for consistency during his two seasons at Stamford Bridge following his world-record move from Athletic Bilbao, with the club’s hierarchy reportedly concerned about the 25-year-old’s abilities and considering potential ‘alternatives’.
The Spaniard made another mistake during the west London side’s defeat at Sheffield United last weekend, and his latest error could accelerate Frank Lampard’s pursuit of a new number one.
According to The Athletic, Chelsea have been in ‘regular contact’ with Onana, who ‘features prominently’ as a chief target should the club choose to strengthen their goalkeeping position.
The Cameroon international has starred for the Dutch side since joining from Barcelona as a teenager, the 24-year-old a fine shot-stopper and possessing excellent distribution with the ball at his feet.
Onana has previously expressed his desire to leave Ajax in search of a new challenge and would be keen on a potential move to the Premier League, with the goalkeeper expected to cost any potential suitors in the region of €30m.
Chelsea’s pursuit of Onana may depend on their ability to sell Kepa during the summer, however, with the Spanish international’s asking price and salary demands likely to reduce the number of clubs willing to sanction a deal for the under-fire goalkeeper.
Lampard ‘concerned’ by Chelsea display as Sheffield Utd blunt Blues’ Champions League hopes
See also – Premier League Weekly Awards: Four star Antonio, McGoal-drick, Soyuncu’s meltdown