Latest developments
- Chelsea are plotting a move for Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
- Robert Sanchez's position as first-choice ‘keeper is under threat.
- The Blues are prepared to pay at least £58 million for the Swiss stopper.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): BILD a reliable outlet
Robert Sanchez's time as Chelsea's number one goalkeeper is limited, with the Blues set to replace him with Borussia Dortmund's Gregor Kobel.
This story was reported in The Metro but the news broke in German newspaper BILD. There is not much source information to go on, but BILD is one of the most trustworthy German news outlets.
Value (3/5): Chelsea prepared to pay big
A stellar 2024 saw Kobel not only reach the UEFA Champions League final with Dortmund, but take over from Yann Sommer as Switzerland's main goalkeeper.
That has seen the 27-year-old's market value rise to £33 million, yet sources are claiming Chelsea are preparing a bid of between £58-£66 million. It seems he has admirers at Stamford Bridge.
Suitability (4.5/5): Premier League quality
Able to play the ball with confidence, but also quick with his feet, Kobel is renowned for his shot-stopping abilities, making him very much the modern goalkeeper and his performances in Europe suggest he is capable of doing the business in the Premier League.
Upgrade (4/5): Current crop unfancied
Much has been made of Sanchez being the weak link that is preventing Enzo Maresca's side being proper title challengers. While summer signing Filip Jorgensen, last season's regular Djordje Petrovic and the loaned out Kepa Arrizabalaga are clearly not seen as stronger options.
Dortmund came up short in the Bundesliga title race in dramatic style two seasons ago, but it would seem there is faith in Kobel to get the Blues over the line.
Logic (3/5): Not much extra on offer
Other than improved wages and a slightly higher standard of league football, there is not too much on offer at Chelsea that Kobel can't get already at Dortmund, where he is under contract until 2028 and playing in front of 80,000 in the Champions League.
If Chelsea agree that a top goalkeeper is their main are of need, then it makes sense to at least test the waters.
Whisper+ verdict: 17/25
He may be a little on the pricey side, but he plays in a position in which Chelsea need a boost to take them to the next level, and a bid at that price might be enough to tempt Dortmund.
