Claims from Italy: Chelsea lodge €60m bid for 27-year-old as back-up plan revealed

Chelsea are stepping up their efforts to sign a new goalkeeper this summer, according to reports in Italy.

Mauricio Pochettino wants to bring in a replacement for Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga, both of whom are facing uncertain futures at Chelsea.

Mendy, who has been linked with Spurs, has been unable to agree a new contract with the Blues, while Kepa’s place in the side is under threat despite reclaiming the number one status during the 2022/23 season.

Chelsea have been linked with Inter Milan’s Andre Onana and Brentford’s David Raya, but as reported by La Repubblica, via Sport Witness, AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan has been targeted.

It’s claimed Chelsea have made a €60 million offer for the 27-year-old this summer, yet to be confirmed by anyone in England.

Should Maignan snub a switch to Stamford Bridge, it’s reported that Chelsea are ‘ready to fall back’ on Inter’s Onana this summer, with a player-plus-cash offer eyed.

Kalidou Koulibaly could be used as a makeweight in the deal, on loan, if the Blues want to pursue a deal for Onana instead.

Brentford’s David Raya would cost around £40 million, boss Thomas Frank confirmed back in March, revealing: “If someone wants to come in and buy him then he will be very expensive. For me, it would have to be £40 million-plus.”

Raya’s agent, Jaume Munell, has urged the Bees to reduce his price-tag, with the Spaniard out of contract next summer. Jack Rosser of The Sun states his representatives believe a fee of £15-20 million is a fairer price for the 27-year-old.

“If Brentford does not lower the price tag for David Raya this summer, we’ll be ready to leave as free agent in one year,” said Munell.