Robert Sanchez. (Getty)
Chelsea booked their place in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Saturday after a hard-fought victory over Wrexham.
It was far from straightforward for the Blues, who were pushed all the way by the Championship side after the game finished 2-2 in normal time.
Alejandro Garnacho and the in-form João Pedro eventually made the difference in extra time, scoring to secure a 4-2 win on a difficult night in Wales.
While progression in the competition was the main objective, the match once again highlighted an issue that has troubled the club for some time.
With uncertainty still surrounding the goalkeeping position, calls are growing for Chelsea to strengthen in that area during the summer transfer window.
Chelsea Urged to Sign Trafford
Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole believes the club should move quickly to sign James Trafford if the opportunity arises this summer.
The 23-year-old goalkeeper impressed during his time with Burnley in the Championship last season, playing a key role in helping the Clarets secure promotion back to the Premier League. His performances caught the attention of several top-flight clubs before Manchester City exercised a buy-back clause in their agreement with Burnley, bringing him back to the Etihad Stadium in a deal worth around £31 million.
Despite the hype surrounding him, Trafford has struggled for regular game time this season following City’s decision to also sign Gianluigi Donnarumma. As a result, the young goalkeeper has made just 11 appearances in all competitions ahead of the FA Cup clash with Newcastle United.
Trafford, previously described as “reliable” by Pep Guardiola, is still regarded as one of England’s most promising young goalkeepers. Cole believes Chelsea should be ready to act if he becomes available.
Speaking to Paddy Power, Cole said: “It’s hard with Robert Sanchez because he’s performed well at times. He came out of the starting line up to Jorgensen the other day.
“So it doesn’t look like Liam Rosenior has settled on a number one as much as he says he ‘doesn’t have a number one’. That’s just how he operates.
“When a goalkeeper like James Trafford becomes available, then Chelsea may have to strike. He is improving is Sanchez, but I still think there’s another level. Is it going to be there in time for Chelsea to kick on and be challenging for the Champions League and competing with the Arsenal and Man City’s of the world?”
Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation has remained uncertain for several seasons, and Trafford could represent a long-term solution between the posts. If Manchester City decide the young stopper needs regular football elsewhere, the Blues may see a rare opportunity to address one of their most persistent problem positions.
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