Chelsea are keeping a close eye on Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen as they prepare for a potential shake-up between the posts in the summer transfer window. According to Givemesport, the Dutch shot-stopper has emerged as a serious target for the Blues, who are considering replacing current No.1 Robert Sanchez ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Chelsea Eye Verbruggen as New First-Choice Goalkeeper
Despite signing Filip Jorgensen from Villarreal for £20.7 million last summer, Chelsea remain keen to strengthen their goalkeeping options after inconsistent performances from both Jorgensen and Sanchez. Sanchez, who arrived from Brighton in 2023, has struggled with errors this season, leading to questions over whether he should remain the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Verbruggen, 22, has been identified as a potential long-term solution. The Netherlands international has impressed for Brighton, playing a key role in their FA Cup quarter-final qualification with a string of crucial saves against Newcastle United. His shot-stopping ability, composure on the ball, and distribution make him an attractive option for Chelsea’s style under Enzo Maresca.
Brighton’s Demands and Transfer Battle
Chelsea will have to battle Bayern Munich and Manchester United for Verbruggen’s signature, with Givemesport reporting that Brighton will demand at least £50 million for their highly-rated goalkeeper. New Brighton boss Fabian Hürzeler is keen to keep him, especially with more than three years remaining on his £35,000-per-week contract.
Manchester United are also weighing up a move as they search for an upgrade on Andre Onana, while Bayern Munich have shown interest in securing Verbruggen as they look to refresh their goalkeeping department. However, Chelsea’s strong relationship with Brighton—having previously signed Robert Sanchez, Moisés Caicedo, and Marc Cucurella from the Seagulls—could work in their favor.
Goalkeeping Overhaul at Stamford Bridge
With Chelsea looking to sign a new No.1, at least one of Sanchez, Jorgensen, Djordje Petrovic, or young talent Mike Penders is expected to leave in the summer. The club’s public stance suggests they already have their goalkeeper for next season, but behind the scenes, influential figures are exploring their options.
Verbruggen is not the only name on Chelsea’s shortlist, with Porto’s Diogo Costa and Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher also being monitored. However, the Dutchman’s Premier League experience and proven quality at Brighton make him an appealing candidate to take over as Chelsea’s new first-choice goalkeeper.
Maresca’s Vision for Chelsea’s Future
Enzo Maresca is determined to build a squad capable of competing for major honors, and securing a reliable goalkeeper is a priority. The Italian coach wants a shot-stopper who is comfortable with the ball at his feet, can initiate attacks, and provide defensive stability.
With Chelsea’s ambition to return to the top of English football, a move for Verbruggen could be a crucial step in their transformation. If the Blues are willing to meet Brighton’s £50 million valuation, Stamford Bridge could soon welcome its next long-term No.1.
Source: https://therealchelseafans.com/2025/03/03/chelsea-to-sign-50million-premier-league-goalkeeper-as-replacement-for-robert-sanchez/
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😂😂😂😂
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Chelsea no go kill us 😂😂😂
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Remembered where Sanchez was from? You are going there to pick another one? 😂😂😂
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Just pray this one doesn't flop
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Chelsea abeg, come sign Onana 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
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