The Blues have reportedly set their eyes on making a move for Atletico Madrid star Jan Oblak this summer. Recent rumors suggest that Chelsea FC would be willing to include Kepa Arrizabalaga in the transfer deal for Oblak to convince Atletico on agreeing upon the offer.
Chelsea FC boss Frank Lampard’s faith in Kepa’s abilities to continue as the Blues’ number one has decreased in recent weeks. The Spaniard has been very error-prone between the sticks for the Blues over the last few games. Kepa was subject to criticism for his performance in Chelsea FC’s last game against Sheffield United that turned out to be a 3-0 loss for the Blues.
Signing Oblak would certainly come at a huge price for Frank Lampard and Chelsea FC. The 27-year old has emerged into one of the world’s best goalkeepers while at the Wanda Metropolitano. Oblak’s presence between the sticks has been a major reason for the success enjoyed by Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid side in recent seasons.
Since joining the Spanish side in 2014, the Slovenian international has made over 250 appearances for the Madrid based outfit. Initially signed by the La Liga side to replace the departing Thibaut Courtois, Oblak has developed into perhaps the most important player for Diego Simeone at the club.
With the 27-year old Slovenian’s current deal with Atletico Madrid set to expire in 2023, pursuing the shot-stopper’s transfer would be an expensive affair for Lampard. Oblak has a £120m buy-out clause in his contract with the Spanish side.
If the Blues do go ahead and activate his release clause, Oblak would become the world’s most expensive goalkeeper purchase. The current transfer fee record is held by Chelsea FC only, with the Blues paying £71.6 million to tempt Kepa away from Athletic Bilbao in 2018.
However, including the 25-year old Kepa in the transfer deal could lessen Atletico’s asking price for Oblak. Despite his shoddy performances of late, the Spaniard remains a great first-team goalkeeping option for any top European football club.
