Sanchez, a 25-year-old player, faced a setback in his career at Brighton during the previous season when Roberto De Zerbi opted for Jason Steele, valuing his ball-playing skills over Sanchez’s goalkeeping prowess. Additionally, Brighton made an acquisition this summer, signing Bart Verbruggen from Anderlecht for a transfer fee of slightly over £16 million.
Why Robert Sanchez is a good replacement for Mendy
Chelsea are on the hunt for a new goal keeper to pair with Kepa Arrizabalaga after they sold Edouard Mendy to Saudi Pro club Ahli this summer, after much search for a keeper, the blues has decided to settle for Brighton Robert Sanchez. Ben Roberts who happens to be the current goalkeeper chief at Chelsea, was a staff at Brighton before Graham Potter was signed by Chelsea which saw Ben Robert moved to Chelsea.
According to sources from 90min, it has been confirmed that Sanchez is on the verge of joining Chelsea. The two clubs have reached an agreement on the transfer fee, and personal terms are not posing any obstacles. As a result, Sanchez is now set to undergo a medical examination shortly before signing a contract with the club at Stamford Bridge.
The pursuit of Sanchez has been driven significantly by Chelsea’s goalkeeping chief, Ben Roberts. Having previously worked with Sanchez during their time together at Brighton, Roberts followed Graham Potter to Chelsea. Eventually, Roberts was promoted to a role that involves him in the recruitment of goalkeepers for the club.
Options for Edouard Mendy replacement
Chelsea has been in search of a top-tier goalkeeper to add competition for Kepa. They initially explored the possibility of signing Andre Onana during the summer transfer window. However, they ultimately allowed the Cameroon international to join Manchester United instead.
A potential bid for AC Milan’s Mike Maignan was also considered, but it was ruled out due to the high asking price set by the Italian club.
Fortunately, Roberth Sanchez’s Premier League experience and his status as a homegrown player, thanks to his time in the Brighton academy, have made him a favorable candidate in the eyes of Chelsea’s recruitment department.
Currently, discussions are ongoing between Chelsea and Brighton regarding the potential transfer of midfielder Moises Caicedo. However, the Blues have faced rejection for multiple bids they’ve made for him this summer.
