Chelsea Eye Champions League Standout Keepers, Mike Maignan, Andre Onana

BY VICTOR OSOWOCHI – Still smarting from their worst ever English Premiership performance in recent years, Chelsea are reportedly looking for another mega-money goalkeeper to replace their underachieving first choice, Kepa Arrizabalaga

Already being touted as targets to take over from the Spain International are the duo of AC Milan safe hands, Mike Maignan and Andre Onana of Inter Milan

Reports said Kepa, who was brought to Stamford Bridge in what was a world-record deal of £72 million ($90m) for a goalkeeper way back in 2018, could stay on if his form improves during the pre-season.

Having largely failed to live up to that price tag during his time at Stamford Bridge, Kepa lost his place to Senegalese keeper Edouard Mendy during the Blues Champions League-winning run before regaining it during the just-concluded season.

However, The Telegraph reports that the Blues are ready to move on this summer if Kepa does not show any sign of further improvement in his performance between the post.

From the Board room, strong signals have emerged that the Serie A duo, Maignan and Onana, are being primed to take over the No.1 spot at Stamford Bridge and talks are on to decide which of the shot stopper Chelsea will move for.

Though not officially confirmed, sources said the new Manager Mauricio Pochettino is already in the market for a new ‘keeper, with The Telegraph reporting that Kepa will be granted the opportunity to stay at if he so wishes.

In that regard, Kepa’s situation is similar to that of Inter Milan loanee Romelu Lukaku, who may also be given the chance to stay in west London, even though it seems clear the Belgian wants out.

But with both Kepa and Lukaku, Chelsea may have a hard time shifting two of their record signings – and transfer fees may also stand in the way of deals for Onana and Maignan.

Reports indicate that while Milan may be reluctant to let go of the Frenchman as they step up preparation for the new season, Inter on their part have placed a whopping £50 million ($63m) fee on their No.1 goal tender.

Consequently, the Blues will have to once again break the bank if they are to secure a deal for their prized goalkeeping target. That eventuality could prove difficult given the club’s staggering losses last year and their need to offload stars, rather than bring more names in. – With agency reports