Chelsea Pursue Deal For Brighton Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez

Chelsea are making progress in their pursuit of Brighton goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, who is no longer wanted by the Seagulls, according to reports.

The Blues are in search of a new ‘keeper after the departure of Edouard Mendy, leaving Marcus Bettinelli as the main competition for Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The Spaniard, who is currently first choice with the gloves at Stamford Bridge, has been unconvincing for much of his spell in west London, so new manager Mauricio Pochettino may not just want competition for him but a replacement.

Sanchez could be that man, with the Daily Mail reporting that progress is being made towards a deal for the Spain international to move to Chelsea.

The 25-year-old had been first choice for the Seagulls but has fallen down the pecking order under Roberto De Zerbi, losing his place to Jason Steele last season and is set to be behind summer signing Bart Verbruggen who has arrived from Anderlecht.

The Mail reported earlier this month that Brighton would be looking for around £30m for Sanchez, although they may struggle to get that price with him so clearly demoted from the first team picture.

The Spaniard is so far out of De Zerbi’s plans that he has been training with the Under-18 side, so an imminent exit looks inevitable.

Ben Roberts, the goalkeeping coach at Chelsea and formerly of Brighton, is thought to be pushing for Sanchez to make the switch as he is a big fan of his work.

The Blues continued their pre-season preparations with a 2-0 win over Fulham on Sunday in Maryland, with Thiago Silva and Christopher Nkunku getting on the score sheet.