Bringing in a new goalkeeper should be a priority for Chelsea, at least according to the fans in the Transfer Tavern. Beyond Thibaut Courtois, the Blues have a lack of depth – and even Courtois’ future is uncertain, given that his contract expires next summer.
This summer, then, perhaps signing a top class option – who can both challenge and serve as a back-up to Courtois – makes sense.
Chelsea have a shortage of homegrown talents at present, and that is a problem. They’re required to hit Premier League quotas, and with Gary Cahill the only Englishman that starts regularly, their long-term prospects aren’t looking great.
Fortunately, we’ve entered a bit of a golden period in terms of top homegrown shot-stoppers, and one man that could be perfect is Nick Pope of Burnley.
Pope, who is a part of England’s World Cup squad, has impressed over the last year as Burnley’s first choice goalkeeper. The Clarets have enjoyed a brilliant season in the Premier League, having emerged as genuine European contenders.
The goalkeeper has been crucial to their success. He’s very solid between the sticks, displaying brilliant shot-stopping, an effective aerial presence, and more generally – a consistent level of form.
There’s even an argument to suggest that he’s had a better season than Courtois. Chelsea’s Belgian hasn’t really put in any outstanding performances, whereas Pope has been forced into action on a weekly basis.
Bringing Pope in, then, makes perfect sense. Chelsea need to prepare in the event that Courtois departs in the future – and he would be a brilliant replacement.
Chelsea fans – thoughts?
Let us know below!
