Chelsea

Chelsea

Premier League • England

Gabriel Slonina: Kepa Arrizabalaga replacement ‘confirmed’ as Chelsea set to beat Wolves to 18-year-old star

Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina (1) reacts to a play in action during a game between the Chicago Fire and the New York Red Bulls

Chicago Fire ‘keeper Gabriel Slonina is reportedly on the verge of joining Chelsea with Kepa Arrizabalaga also looking likely to exit.

Slonina has been linked heavily with a move to the Premier League. Both Chelsea and Wolves were said to be interested in the young shot-stoppers signature. Now, it seems like Chelsea have won the race with a long-term deal expected to be signed.

That’s according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, who tweeted that a package deal worth $15m has been agreed.

The 18-year-old is already the number one ‘keeper for Chicago Fire, and has an exceptionally bright future ahead of him.

He is expected to fly over to London to complete his medical today (July 31st). The plan then is for him to return to Chicago.

Wolves were said to be interested in Slonina as a long-term replacement for Jose Sa. Real Madrid were also reportedly potential suitors.

So now, Chelsea will be delighted if they manage to land the star ahead of their competition. Edouard Mendy is 30 years old, and Slonina could already be his replacement once his time at the club comes to an end.

The American will likely start as a back-up, but depending on how he develops could soon provide Mendy with competition.

With the medical expected soon, Chelsea are hopeful that an announcement will quickly follow.

The future of Kepa at Chelsea in doubt

This further brings into question the future of Kepa Arrizabalaga at Chelsea. He has been continuously linked with a move away after struggling to compete with Mendy for a starting position.

It has been reported by Gianluca di Marzio that Napoli are ‘closer’ to agreeing a deal for the Spanish shot-stopper.

It is believed the deal will be a loan move, with Chelsea continuing to pay a third of his wages.

The only ongoing dispute is bonuses. Chelsea would like Napoli to include two bonuses worth $1.5m each, however, Napoli are working to lower that sum.

Kepa made just four league appearances last season, and appears to not be included in Thomas Tuchel’s future plans.

READ MORE: 

Hakim Ziyech: Charles De Ketelare transfer saga repeated as AC Milan ready move for reported Leeds United target