The Athletic detail Chelsea’s January transfer plan for key position | OneFootball

Chelsea are unlikely to sign a new goalkeeper in January as they are reluctant to block the pathway of Mike Penders according to The Athletic.

The Blues made six summer signings, five of which were attackers as the front line underwent a major revamp, whilst they also added back-up for Marc Cucurella in the form of Jorrel Hato.

However, one position which many supporters wanted to see strengthened was goalkeeper, but the Blues ultimately stuck with their existing options.

Chelsea unlikely to pursue a goalkeeper in January

Chelsea had the opportunity to sign Mike Maignan in the summer, but weren’t prepared to get near AC Milan’s valuation of £20-£25m.

Gianluigi Donnarumma was also available, and despite links Chelsea didn’t make a move, and the Italian instead joined Manchester City.

Chelsea are believed to be unlikely to sign a goalkeeper in January. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

The Blues are already paying the price for not signing a new goalkeeper, with Sanchez getting sent off against Manchester United, and Filip Jorgensen failing to impress against Lincoln.

There have been reports Chelsea could go back in for Maignan in January, but The Athletic have reported the Blues are unlikely to pursue a keeper in January.

The report adds the Blues rate youngster Mike Penders highly, and are reluctant to block his pathway to the first team.

Mike Penders highly regarded at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea paid €20m to Belgian side Genk for Penders in 2024, and the youngster remained in Belgium last season.

Penders was part of the Chelsea squad for the Club World Cup, but didn’t feature as the Blues went on to lift the trophy in New York.

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Chelsea reportedly believe Penders is a “special” talent, and the 20-year-old is currently on loan at Strasbourg, where he’s made an impressive start to the season.

The Blues are said to be pleased with the progress Penders is making, and they seemingly view him as the club’s long term number one, it just appears to be a question of when they believe he’s ready to make that step.