Chelsea are set to sign Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Gaga Slonina, according to reports.
The 18-year-old is one of the best youngsters to emerge from the academy of the MLS club. He quickly progressed through the youth ranks to earn his senior debut last year in August, which made him the youngest starting goalkeeper in the league’s history.
His performances drew the attention of the Premier League giants who were said to be in talks with Fire over a move for several months.
As per ESPN, the Blues have reached a verbal agreement with the American club to sign Gabriel Slonina for a base fee of $10 million that could rise to $15m with add-ons.
The Addison-born footballer is set to undergo his medical in London and then he will sign a deal that will see him loaned back to Fire before joining the Pensioners on January 1.
Need to be patient in the beginning
Slonina is one of the best young graduates to progress into the Chicago Fire first-team.
The talented youngster has already made 23 starts in the MLS this season, earning nine clean sheets to his name. He also has represented the United States at youth levels on several occasions.
Chelsea currently have four goalkeepers on their books, with Edouard Mendy their first-choice and Kepa Arrizabalaga his deputy.
However, Kepa is expected to leave Stamford Bridge on loan this summer. That may open up opportunities for Slonina at the Premier League club.
However, the young shot-stopper will need to be patient in the beginning and try to impress Thomas Tuchel in training with his hard work and dedication.
The American footballer is only 18-years-old, so he has plenty of time to improve his game. And in Tuchel, he will find one of the best coaches in the world to guide and advise him.
