Chelsea now want to sign Kasper Schmeichel as a replacement for Kepa Arrizabalaga – who is heading to Real Madrid.
That is according to the Guardian.
So, what is the situation involving Chelsea and Kasper Schmeichel? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, Kepa has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Real Madrid after Thibaut Courtois suffered a serious knee injury in training.
The Spanish giants have beaten Bayern Munich to the Spain international’s services, and are expected to seal a season-long loan deal shortly.
It is also said that Real Madrid will not have an option – or obligation – to sign Kepa permanently once the loan has expired.
Once the Spaniard returns to his homeland, Chelsea may push to bring Schmeichel back to the Premier League.
The Denmark international left these shores to join OGC Nice back in August 2022, after 11 years at Leicester.
In that time, Schmeichel made 284 Premier League appearances – remarkably winning one Premier League title against all odds – while he also lifted the FA Cup with the Foxes after beating Chelsea 1-0 in 2021.
After one special save from Mason Mount in that FA Cup final, Thomas Tuchel described the Dane as “incredible” – he was undoubtedly one of the best during his time in England, and it was telling that Leicester suffered relegation once he had left.
Kasper Schmeichel could prove to be a very smart signing by Chelsea
In our view, Schmeichel could be a masterstroke of a signing – in terms of his experience.
The 36-year-old is unlikely to start ahead of Robert Sanchez, but he boasts tremendous experience in the game, and knows what a title winning dressing room looks like.
With only a handful of players above the age of 25 at Chelsea this season, Schmeichel could prove to be an important player for Mauricio Pochettino, even if he doesn’t play a single game.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Chelsea attempt to replace Kepa before deadline day.
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