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Chelsea agree fee with Brighton over Robert Sanchez.
Reports suggest that Chelsea is nearing the signing of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez from Brighton as they seek to strengthen their goalkeeping options following the departure of Edouard Mendy.
Chelsea has been in search of a capable backup for Kepa Arrizabalaga since Mendy’s move to Al Ahli earlier in the summer. The club has now set its sights on Sanchez.
During the previous season, Sanchez, 25, was replaced as Brighton’s starting goalkeeper by Roberto De Zerbi, who preferred Jason Steele for his ball-playing abilities. Brighton also acquired Bart Verbruggen from Anderlecht for a fee of just over £16 million this summer.
Sources have confirmed that Sanchez’s move to Chelsea is imminent. The two clubs have reportedly agreed on a transfer fee, and personal terms are no longer a hurdle. Sanchez is expected to undergo a medical soon before finalizing the deal at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s goalkeeping coach, Ben Roberts, who initially worked with Sanchez at Brighton and then followed Graham Potter to Chelsea, has played a significant role in the club’s pursuit of the goalkeeper.
At the start of the summer, Chelsea explored a deal for Andre Onana in their search for a top goalkeeper to challenge Kepa. However, Onana ultimately joined Manchester United. A bid for Mike Maignan was also rejected due to AC Milan’s high asking price.
Sanchez is favored by Chelsea’s recruitment department because of his Premier League experience and his status as a homegrown player, thanks to his time in the Brighton academy.
Chelsea and Brighton are reportedly still in discussions regarding midfielder Moises Caicedo, for whom Chelsea has had two offers rejected this summer. Brighton is holding out for a £100 million fee for the talented midfielder and swiftly turned down an £80 million offer.