Chelsea Launch First Bid to Sign Brighton Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez
Chelsea have launched their first bid to sign Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, according to reports. The Blues are looking to land a new ‘keeper after the departure of Edouard Mendy to provide competition for No.1 Kepa Arrizabalaga and Sanchez is thought to have agreed to join Chelsea.
Sanchez No Longer Wanted by Seagulls
Sanchez is no longer wanted by the Seagulls having lost his place to Jason Steele in March. Chelsea have been linked to the 25-year-old – who has been capped twice by Spain – and according to The Athletic, the Blues have now made their first offer. They report that while Brighton are yet to officially respond, discussions over a transfer are ongoing.
Sanchez Came Through Brighton’s Academy
The goalkeeper was left out of Brighton’s pre-season squad and the south coast club have signed Bart Verbruggen this summer as a replacement for Sanchez. Sanchez came through Brighton’s academy and has made 90 appearances for the Seagulls to date.
Brighton Looking for £30m for Sanchez
It was reported earlier this month that Brighton would be looking for around £30m for Sanchez, although they may struggle to get that price, with the player clearly not in Brighton’s plans for the new season. Sanchez has been training with the U18 side, so an exit this summer looks inevitable.
Sanchez Helped Brighton Secure Sixth Place Finish Last Term
He helped Roberto De Zerbi’s side secure a remarkable sixth-placed finish in the Premier League last term as they qualified for this season’s Europa League. Chelsea will be hoping that Sanchez can help them challenge for the league title this season, as they look to build on their fourth-place finish last season.
Chelsea Looking to Strengthen Squad Ahead of New Season
The Blues have already added Lesley Ugochukwu and Timo Werner to their squad this summer, and are looking to add more players before the transfer window closes. Sanchez is seen as an ideal addition to the squad, as he has experience of playing in the Premier League and is familiar with English football.
Conclusion
Chelsea have launched their first bid to sign Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. Sanchez is no longer wanted by the Seagulls and has been training with the U18 side, so an exit this summer looks inevitable. The Blues are hoping that Sanchez can help them challenge for the league title this season, as they look to build on their fourth-place finish last season.