Chelsea have set their sights on Spanish goalie Unai Simon. (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images)
According to 90Min via Fichajes, Chelsea have set their sights on Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon, whose contract expires in 2025. (Transfermarkt).
It is also understood that the Blues scouts were present during Athletic Club’s last 2-2 draw against Valencia, but other clubs are interested in signing the Spanish international. He continues to make a name for himself in the Spanish top flight.
The 26-year-old this season has drawn the Blues to consider signing him as Simon conceded zero goals in five games before the match against Valencia. A reliable last line of defence is certainly something Chelsea can do with.
The Blues are set to allow Kepa Arrizabalaga to leave for Real Madrid next summer. But the West Londoners have enough options in Robert Sánchez and Djordje Petrovic in their goalkeeping department. While the former is currently the number one, one could argue that we could do with an upgrade if we are serious about challenging for major titles.
Petrovic is yet to make his debut, given Sanchez has occupied the position since Kepa left on loan to Real. However, the former Brighton & Hove Albion custodian has appeared shaky sometimes in front of the net. If he continues to make poor mistakes, Chelsea will have to find a competition for him soon. Kepa has never quite settled in at Stamford Bridge and a parting of the ways is what is best for all parties.
Before we go for another custodian, we should still give Petrovic an opportunity to show his merit. If we are successful in signing Simon, what will happen to the Siberian goalie?
Simon is a top-rated goalkeeper, and he is also ahead in the pecking order for the national team, benching the likes of David Raya and Kepa among others. A solid shot-stopper, Simon is a world-class player who is certainly an upgrade over Kepa. At 26, Simon is in his prime and can be out rock at the back.
Simon is an interesting choice and has what it takes to be the custodian of a club chasing glory. Whether we are ready to go all out to land him in the summer of 2024 remains to be seen.
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