Chelsea’s goalkeeper situation has become impossible to ignore heading into the summer.
Following the Blues' decision to appoint Xabi Alonso as Liam Rosenior's permanent successor, one of the first issues the Spaniard will need to tackle is deciding on who is going to be his number one next season.
Despite being given ample opportunities, neither Robert Sanchez nor Filip Jorgensen have managed to fully convince during their time at Stamford Bridge and too often this has led to a shaky defence.
As a result of their problems in between the sticks, according to recent reports, Chelsea will look to bring in a new goalkeeper in time for the 2026-27 season.
Chelsea big fans of Sunderland's Robin Roefs
Set to pursue a new goalkeeper, according to The Sun, Chelsea are serious about signing Sunderland's Robin Roefs this summer.
The 23-year-old hasn't just been one of Sunderland's best players this season, he's been one of the Premier League's. The Dutchman has looked solid in nearly every game he's featured and has helped put the Black Cats in line to finish inside the top half.
However, luring Roefs away from the Stadium of Light won't be easy. Not only is he arguably Regis Les Bris' most important player, but he also has four years left on his contract.
As a result, The Sun's report claims Sunderland would demand upwards of £50 million for Roefs. A hefty price tag for a goalkeeper who would be expected to have an instant impact in one of the most high-pressured positions.
Mike Penders could be biggest loser of potential Roefs signing
One of the more interesting parts of this story is what it potentially means for the type of team Alonso wants to build.
Because while Roefs still fits BlueCo’s preferred young age profile, he doesn't feel like just another 'maybe' signing based entirely around his future potential. The former NEC Nijmegen keeper has already proven he can do it at the highest level.
He has kept 10 clean sheets in 34 Premier League appearances. Keeping the ball out of his net in nearly 33 per cent of the games he's played in is hugely impressive considering this season has been his first in England's top-flight.
Roefs may still be relatively inexperienced, but there is already a maturity and calmness to his game which perhaps explains why Chelsea are ramping up their interest.
Mike Penders, currently on loan with Strasbourg, will return at the end of the season, but following his parent club's links to Roefs, may not end up being given the number one jersey, despite previously being in line to.
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