Transfer News: Chelsea interested in signing Marc-André ter Stegen from Barcelona
According to El Nacional (h/t Mirror), Chelsea are keen on luring Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen.
Chelsea currently have one of the best goalkeepers in Europe’s top five leagues. Edouard Mendy played a decisive role in Blues’ Champions League triumph last campaign. Even though the Senegalese star has made some blunders this season, his overall impact has been massive. The 29-year-old appeared to have enough goodwill saved up at Stamford Bridge, but not anymore!
It is believed that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is disappointed with Mendy and are eyeing Barcelona’s Ter Stegen to take his spot.
Ter Stegen was considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world a few years back. The German goalkeeper’s recent performances have taken a hit in recent seasons, and Barcelona’s defensive vulnerability has only made it look worse. The 29-year-old goalkeeper has made 22 appearances this season across all competitions for the Catalan club.
It is also believed that by offloading Ter Stegen, the Barcelona board are eying to register new arrival Ferran Torres in the team. Joan Laporta’s board have shortlisted Ajax’s Andre Onana to replace the German if he leaves the Nou Camp.
The Ter Stegen move could create a clash inside the Barcelona hierarchy. It seems the Blaugrana president is eyeing to initiate the transfer of the German goalkeeper if any viable offer appears. On the other hand, new manager Xavi still wants to keep hold of his first-choice keeper.
Mendy has been top-notch from the last season. Very few keepers have managed to hold the consistency like the Senegalese. The 29-year-old came to the club when Kepa Arrizabalaga was struggling. However, the former Rennais player has exceeded all expectations. Therefore, it’s difficult to understand why the owner has lost faith in the keeper.
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Chelsea may need to find a second choice keeper amid a busy schedule. But, losing Mendy would be a massive mistake for any team. Ter Stegen’s success depends on many factors, adaptation to the English environment being one of them. Therefore, Chelsea have no reason to take such a risk when a world-class keeper is already in the squad.