Chelsea have come to terms with Major League Soccer team New England Revolution for the signing of goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic.
According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the transfer will cost Chelsea approximately €16 million.
The promising Serbian goalkeeper is set to undergo his medical examination on Wednesday and is expected to sign a seven-year contract that will keep him with Chelsea until 2030.
Chelsea have been in dire need of a goalkeeper this summer after Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga’s departures, particularly with Kepa joining Real Madrid on a season-long loan.
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While Robert Sanchez has assumed the primary role in goal under Mauricio Pochettino this season, the backup options are limited.
EXCL: Djordje Petrović to Chelsea, here we go! Verbal agreement in place with New England Revolution on €16m deal 🚨🔵🇷🇸 #CFC
Medical tests booked on Wednesday for the Serbian goalkeeper who’s gonna compete with Robert Sanchez. pic.twitter.com/5h6lOyPRP7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2023
Petrovic is not just seen as a valuable addition to bolstering Chelsea’s goalkeeper ranks but also as a player who can provide competition for Sanchez.
Since his move from Cukaricki last summer, the 23-year-old has developed into one of MLS’s standout talents, boasting 15 clean sheets in 48 appearances for New England Revolution.
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A transfer to Stamford Bridge could also elevate Petrovic’s status with the Serbian national team, potentially putting him in contention with Vanja Milinkovic-Savic for the starting goalkeeper position.
The Blues have a history of recruiting talent from MLS, including Gabriel Slonina, who is currently on loan at Eupen. They are optimistic that their acquisition of Petrovic will also yield positive results.
Pochettino is currently facing significant scrutiny following a draw against Liverpool and a loss to West Ham United.
The Argentine manager will aim to secure his first victory when Chelsea faces newly-promoted Luton Town in the Premier League this coming weekend.
