The Athletic provide Mike Penders update amid imminent Xabi Alonso appointment

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the Chelsea News

·17 Mei 2026

The Athletic provide Mike Penders update amid imminent Xabi Alonso appointment

Mike Penders is in contention to replace Robert Sanchez as Chelsea number one next season according to The Athletic.

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It’s been another disappointing season for the Blues, and they face a huge summer with serious reinforcements needed in the squad.

Chelsea are reportedly in the market for a centre back, whilst they are said to also want to add another midfielder and attacker.

Mike Penders in contention to be Chelsea number one next season

With a deal agreed for Xabi Alonso to become the club’s next head coach, it’ll be interesting to see what backing the Spaniard gets.

It’s been reported he will have a greater say in transfers than Enzo Maresca, and one big decision which needs to be made is who will be the number one goalkeeper next season.

Robert Sanchez is currently first choice, but Chelsea were again linked with Mike Maignan this week, and fans would like to see a new goalkeeper signed.

Belgian youngster Mike Penders is impressing on loan at Strasbourg, although it would be a bold call to make the 20-year-old first choice next season.

However, The Athletic have reported Penders is in fact in contention to replace Sanchez as number one after impressing in France.

Penders has kept 12 clean sheets in 51 appearances in all competitions, in what’s his first season playing in one of Europe’s top five leagues.

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