Chelsea consider move for 23-year-old Man United target to replace Kepa

Chelsea considering surprise move for MLS shot-stopper Djordje Petrovic

Chelsea are interested in signing MLS goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic as a replacement for Kepa Arrizabalaga, who joined Real Madrid on a season-long loan.

According to the Telegraph (h/t Express) the New England Revolution club’s goalie is on Chelsea’s radar as they look to add a backup for Robert Sanchez.

Petrovic has been at the Revs since replacing Matt Turner and has played 48 times for the MLS club, keeping 15 clean sheets. The 23-year-old Serbia international boasts a 1.94-meter frame and is a decent shot-stopper.

Kepa, who joined Real Madrid, is set to replace Thibaut Courtois. The Belgian goalkeeper suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury that could see him remain on the sidelines for a larger part of the season.

The former Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper was likely to remain at Chelsea as their no. 1 goalkeeper with Sanchez signed to compete with Kepa, but with Real showing interest, the 28-year-old joined them.

Now the former Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper will be our first choice between the sticks and has already made his Chelsea debut in the 1-1 draw against Liverpool. Petrovic, meanwhile, has a contract until 2024 with an option to extend, and alongside Chelsea, Manchester United are also keeping an eye on the custodian.

 Kepa Arrizabalaga officially joins Real Madrid on loan. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Kepa Arrizabalaga officially joins Real Madrid on loan. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

Kepa’s return to Chelsea remains uncertain, as he wants to stay at Real Madrid. He clearly wants to stay there and that means Chelsea will have to enter the market for a new goalkeeper.

The Serbian goalkeeper seems like a decent signing. We can only know more about him if and when we see him play in our colours. So far, our scouting team has done great work to unearth some of football’s upcoming gems.

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Much depends on what Chelsea think of Sanchez. If they are truly confident that he will be their undisputed No. 1 for several years, Petrovic will be a great backup. If not, we are better off signing a player with a bigger reputation who has experience playing in the top leagues and is good with his feet.