Chelsea have struck a double agreement to sign Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, though a current Blues star will be pushed out as a result.
Not long after Mauricio Pochettino took charge, the Mirror reported the new Chelsea boss wasn’t all that impressed with his goalkeeping options.
Edouard Mendy was quickly turfed out as a result. The Senegalese joined Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli in a deal worth £16m.
That left Kepa Arizzabalaga as the undisputed No 1, though a player who’d provide stiff competition – or potentially even displace – the Spaniard was sought.
Chelsea showed interest in Andre Onana, though ultimately did not act. Instead the Blues spied an opportunity much closer to home in the form of Brighton’s Robert Sanchez.
The Spain international, 25, fell out of favour under Roberto De Zerbi towards the end of last season. Jason Steel was preferred, with Sanchez voluntarily removing himself for selection for multiple games.
The arrival of Bart Verbruggen was another indicator Sanchez’s time at the AMEX was up. As such, it came as no surprise to see the Daily Mail report Sanchez had verbally agreed to join Chelsea earlier this week.
Talks between Brighton and Chelsea duly begun and per Fabrizio Romano and the Athletic, an agreement has been struck.
Chelsea will pay Brighton an initial £20m that could rise to £25m pending add-ons.
Per Romano, a “long-term” contract has been agreed and the trusted journalist gave the move his signature “here we go” confirmation.
Sanchez will reportedly undergo a medical ‘imminently’. As such, his arrival could officially be announced over the next 24-48 hours.
Loan exit awaits for Gabriel Slonina
With Sanchez on the way, one player who’ll now be allowed to leave on loan is Gabriel Slonina.
The USA international, 19, recently played his first match for Chelsea when keeping a clean sheet in the 2-0 friendly victory over Fulham.
However, according to Romano, Slonina “will now leave on loan”.
Where the rising youngster might go is yet to be determined.
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