Chelsea and Manchester United are reportedly in a transfer race for Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana. The Blues are in the market for a new stopper as former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino prepares for his reign at Stamford Bridge. Onana has emerged as Chelsea’s top target, but they face competition from United, who are looking for someone to rival David de Gea.
Competition for Onana
According to The Guardian, Chelsea held a meeting with Inter, where Onana and wantaway striker Romelu Lukaku were both discussed. It could see the two being used in a swap deal after Lukaku spent the season back on loan in Milan, a year after leaving to sign for Chelsea. Everton’s Jordan Pickford is among the other names linked with United.
De Gea’s future
De Gea suffered dips in form last season, but he looks set to sign a new deal on the contract which expires this month. The Spaniard is even ready to take a pay cut of around 50 per cent of the current £375,000-a-week wages he has. However, United are still reportedly in the market for a new goalkeeper to rival De Gea.
Kepa’s future
Another emerging option for the Blues is to stick with current keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Sky Sports say Pochettino plans to go into the upcoming season with Kepa as his first-choice goalkeeper. The 13-time Spain international, 28, remains the world’s most expensive goalie after a £71.6million move from Athletic Bilbao in 2018. Kepa has played 163 games in that time, despite struggling to nail down a regular spot until last season.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chelsea and Manchester United are both reportedly in the market for a new goalkeeper. While Chelsea have identified Onana as their top target, United are also linked with Everton’s Jordan Pickford. De Gea is set to sign a new deal with United, but they are still reportedly in the market for a new goalkeeper to rival him. Meanwhile, Chelsea could stick with Kepa Arrizabalaga as their first-choice goalkeeper under Pochettino’s reign. It remains to be seen who will come out on top in the transfer race for Onana, but it is clear that both clubs are keen on securing his services.