Romano: Chelsea face competition from multiple clubs for 17-year-old MLS talent

Fabrizio Romano: Chelsea joined by several top European clubs in Gabriel Slonina transfer race

According to the transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are joined by several top European clubs in the race to sign Gabriel Slonina ahead of the summer transfer window. He is one of the most highly rated goalkeeping prodigies in world football at this moment, which has seen him become a highly sought after prospect.

Slonina has earned rave reviews for his performances with Chicago Fire, earning his interest from the Blues. The latter is keen on getting hold of his services, and they were really close to finalising a move for the shot-stopper. Unfortunately, their progress was halted by the sanctions imposed on the club by the UK Government.

As such, several unknown top European sides have entered the transfer race, which would undoubtedly be a blow for Thomas Tuchel’s side. What’s more, Romano further claims that the 17-year-old will take a final decision on his next destination soon enough.

Can Chelsea sign Slonina?

The US international already has earned five clean sheets to his name from just nine appearances in the MLS this season. That shows why he is highly rated at this moment, which backs why major clubs are targeting him in a potential move at this instant.

The West Londoners would be wise to secure the North American’s signature, although they will need to deal with the current restrictions imposed on the club. Hence, they must facilitate the sale of ownership as soon as possible so that they would not lose out on their transfer targets.

It would be a damning blow indeed if we lost his transfer race after being really close to finalising a deal. What could concern fans is that he is set to decide on his future soon enough, which is where Chelsea could suffer due to the current sanctions.

With several top clubs across Europe also being in the fray, we need to be really concerned about this matter. As such, the club officials must do their best to get us out of this plight so as not to lose out on a talented prospect. He could be a necessary signing, considering how he can be the ideal backup for Eduoard Mendy moving forward- and perhaps even his future replacement.

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Kepa Arrizabalga has done more than well for us, but using him as a backup is not good for our finances. Moreover, Kepa has not piped Mendy from the starting spot even with the improved performances. Hence, it would be best to cut our losses with Arrizabalaga, who earns £5.9million a year, which is a bit too much for a second choice keeper.

But that is something that is up to the Blues board and there is nothing to indicate that either Kepa or Mendy could be moved on in the near future. Regardless, it is always beneficial to bring in talented youngsters who can, one day, become a starter for the club.