It’s that time of year when Chelsea’s obsession strikes again: New goalie on the radar

Chelsea’s obsession with goalkeepers has lasted for some time. One of the first hints of their “special condition” came up in 2018, when they brought in Kepa Arrizabalaga from Athletic Bilbao for €80 million, making him the highest-paid custodian in football history.

The Spaniard didn’t meet the expectations, while his successor, Edouard Mendy, did well between the posts, winning the Champions League with the Blues in 2021. However, the Senegalese’s departure opened the old wound at Stamford Bridge that has yet to heal.

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In the last five seasons, Chelsea have signed six keepers, spending over €92 million on their arrivals, yet the proper solution isn’t on the horizon.

They tried with various names - from an experienced free agent Marcus Bettinelli and youngster Gabriel Slonina to lavishly paid Djordje Petrovic, Mike Penders, Filip Jorgensen, and Robert Sanchez.

The latter two have been the first choices in the current season, but neither of them seems like an adequate shot-stopper for the London giants.

And instead of targeting an experienced custodian who could bring stability to their shaky back line, Chelsea have reportedly eyed Bayern Munich’s 16-year-old Leonard Prescott?!

According to German Sky Sports, the Blues and Juventus are interested in the prospect, who currently plays for the Bavarians U-19 team.

The fact that his contract runs through 2027 shows that the Bundesliga club believes in the teenager and his development, so Chelsea would have to “open the wallet” if they want to sign the German born in New York City and possibly even reach the magic figure of €100 million.

The only question is how their fans would react. It’s unlikely it would go down well with them.