Chelsea are negotiating with New England Revolution for highly-touted goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, according to Sky Sports.
The 23-year-old shot-stopper has emerged as the prime target for Chelsea to fill the void left by Kepa Arrizabalaga’s recent loan move to Real Madrid.
Petrovic’s exceptional performances in Major League Soccer have garnered attention, positioning him as one of the standout goalkeeping talents in North America.
With negotiations ongoing, both clubs are deliberating over the details of the transfer deal, including the financial arrangement. Chelsea are optimistic about securing Petrovic’s services.
Although Robert Sanchez has stepped into the role of Chelsea’s starting goalkeeper under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, Petrovic will increase the competition for the number one spot.
The club wants to foster healthy competition within the squad in every position.
Insiders reportedly believe Petrovic can challenge Sanchez for the top spot and potentially usurp the Spaniard if his performances drop.
Chelsea need to sign another goalkeeper, as Marcus Bettinelli is currently injured.
Lucas Bergstrom was on the bench as Chelsea lost to West Ham United this weekend, but he will go on loan for the season.
The arrival of Petrovic would allow Bergstrom to move and offer the Blues a vital layer of depth and assurance in the goalkeeping department.
New England wanted to retain Petrovic, having reportedly turned down offers from Nottingham Forest and Nantes earlier this summer.
There were also whispers of Manchester United expressing an interest in the Serbian goalkeeper to serve as Andre Onana’s understudy.
If Chelsea seal a deal for Petrovic, he will become their ninth summer addition after signing Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, Axel Disasi, Sanchez, Lesley Ugochukwu and Angelo Gabriel.
The Blues are still in the market for attacking reinforcements after looking blunt against the Hammers.
