Harry Diamond
Chelsea are said to be ‘interested’ in an ambitious move to sign Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer as the club seek a replacement for the under-fire Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Frank Lampard is currently assessing his goalkeeping options ahead of the summer transfer window following a disappointing season for Spanish international Kepa, the 25-year-old having been strongly criticised after a series of below-par performances.
Lampard dropped the former Athletic Bilbao shot-stopper from his side earlier this season in favour of veteran deputy Willy Caballero, and the Blues’ boss now appears to be searching for a permanent replacement.
According to German publication, Bild, Chelsea are interested in a deal to sign experienced Bayern goalkeeper Neuer, the Germany international long regarded amongst the finest number ones in world football.
According to our Information @ChelseaFC is interested in a transfer of @Manuel_Neuer if the Club can sell @kepa_46 @SPORTBILD
— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) March 26, 2020
The ‘keeper, who turns 34 today, is contracted to the Bundesliga champions until the summer of 2021, though talks over a new deal have stalled at present with the two parties failing to agree on the length of a potential extension.
Bayern will also welcome Schalke goalkeeper Alexander Nübel to the club in the summer, having agreed a deal to sign the 23-year-old from their divisional rivals on a free transfer, whilst there have also been tentative links with Barcelona’s Marc-André ter Stegen.
Chelsea could now look to capitalise and secure a move for one of Europe’s leading goalkeepers, though any move is likely to depend on their ability to sell Kepa – a player who became the most expensive goalkeeper when arriving from Athletic Bilbao two years ago.
The west London side will want to recoup as much of the £71.6m fee as possible in order for Kepa to depart, though the Spaniard’s stock is arguably at its lowest following a campaign in which he has registered the lowest save percentage amongst all regular top flight goalkeepers.
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See also –Â The English clubs with the most points earned in the top flight since 1888