Cech reveals Chelsea keeper transfer aim as Kai Havertz deal nears

Chelsea plan to carry on spending and will likely target a new goalkeeper next following the signing of Kai Havertz.

Frank Lampard’s side appear set to be the biggest player in the 2020 summer transfer window.

Deals for exciting forwards Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech have already been completed. The defence has also been bolstered too with Ben Chilwell and Thiago Silva also signing.

Next on the agenda for Chelsea is Havertz.

The 20-year-old has quickly developed into becoming one of Europe’s most promising attacking talents.

The Blues have been chasing his signature over the past few months, and recently got the greenlight from owner Roman Abramovich.

The issue of Leverkusen’s £80m-£90m valuation had thought to be a sticking point, with Chelsea reported to have had a lower offer rejected.

However, our exclusive story last week provided the inside scoop on the prospective club-record deal.

And a deal is now reported to be close with the midfielder missing Bayer Leverkusen’s pre-season fitness tests. Bild believes the deal will go through in a matter of days.

Once a deal for Havertz has gone through, Chelsea will switch their focus to signing a new goalkeeper.

Kepa Arrizabalaga’s erratic form over the last two seasons has seen him lose his place in the side. It’s also led to speculation linking Chelsea to several big-money replacements.

The biggest of all these – Atletico Madrid’s Jan Oblak – comes with a giant price tag.

Another name mentioned is Ajax keeper Andre Onana. The Cameroonian has been cleared to leave this summer if anyone matches their €40m asking price.

Burnley’s Nick Pope has also been mentioned. Giving his growing reputation, any deal for the England man would also be costly.

Instead, Sky Sports reports that a more modest name has entered their thinking – Lille keeper Mike Maignan.

Cech confirms Chelsea spending plan

Cech explained that the club still have confidence in the 25-year-old shot stopper but also admitted a new No 1 could be brought in.

“Kepa struggled last season, that is unquestionable,” Cech told Sport.cz.

“But the club invested in him and gave him a long-term contract because they believe he has the qualities and attributes to be successful.

“Additions will be made to the squad, perhaps even in goal, and this is what is being discussed now.

“But nobody is giving up on Kepa and we all hope he has a great future.”

The transfer window has been extended until October 5 this year. As such, Cech will be working hard behind the scenes to get more deals over the line.

“The issue of reinforcements is now very much alive,” the ex-goalkeeper added.

“The transfer window is until the end of October this year so there will be a lot of changes after the league begins.

“And the question is how much the coronavirus pandemic will affect everything.”

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