Chelsea are eyeing late deals before the transfer window closes on Thursday and a new goalkeeper is top of Maurizio Sarri’s wish-list.
The Blues are seeking a replacement for Thibaut Courtois, who is holding out on a move to Real Madrid, and are understood to have lined-up a world-record deal to sign Spain international Kepa Arrizabalaga from Athletic Bilbao.
Chelsea do have alternative options in the market should a deal fall through though and have been heavily linked with Stoke City’s Jack Butland, with the England international available should his £30m asking price be met.
However, the Blues may have missed their chance to sign the England international as Potters boss Gary Rowett has hinted that it is too late to sign a replacement – meaning Butland will spend at least the next few months in the Championship.
Quoted by the Stoke Sentinel, he said:
“I heard the speculation myself and it gets stronger and stronger with the Courtois situation. As far as I’m concerned, I will only get told when a firm offer has come in as to whether it’s something worth even considering. And at this late stage that would be difficult.”
