Chelsea target Andre Onana is keen to leave Ajax Amsterdam
According to Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad (h/t Metro), Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana has expressed his intention to leave the Dutch giants in the summer amidst Chelsea interest.
The Blues are on the lookout for a goalkeeper following the unconvincing performances by Kepa Arrizabalaga. Onana was earmarked as one of the players who could replace the Spaniard.
The Cameroonian is one of Europe’s most prominent players. He has made a name for himself by helping Ajax win the Eredivisie and make the Champions League semifinals last season.
With Hakim Ziyech already set to arrive at Stamford Bridge in the summer, Chelsea could make a double swoop by also signing Onana. Apart from the Blues, Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona are also keen on the player.
According to the report, Onana expressed his gratitude to Ajax and revealed he was happy at the club. However, having spent five seasons in the Dutch capital, he believes it is now time for him to move on.
“It was five great years here, but now my time has come to take a step.”
Onana will be better served to make a move to Chelsea. Although a former Barcelona youth product, it is difficult to see the Cameroonian displace Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.
The German is the undisputed No.1 at the Nou Camp and one of the best keepers in the world. Onana will be taking a step down by relegating himself to the bench at Barcelona.
Although Tottenham are also keen on a goalkeeper to replace the ageing Hugo Lloris, they are behind us in the race for Champions League qualification.
The Blues currently occupy 4th place and look set to return to Europe’s top table next season. Spurs, on the other hand, are in need of a rebuild, a difficult proposition in the current financial crisis.
Chelsea are not immune to this crisis either and will be wary of splashing the cash even if the player is available.
More Chelsea News
- Chelsea keen to beat off rivals to Italian star Federico Chiesa
- Ziyech reveals Lampard connection that convinced him to choose Chelsea
- Chelsea undecided on PSG youngster Ruiz Atil
The keeper’s current deal at Ajax runs till 2022. The Dutch giants could demand as much as £50million for the Cameroonian shot-stopper.
It remains to be seen if Chelsea are willing to pay such an amount just two seasons after paying a world-record fee for Kepa.
