Chelsea are reportedly planning to land Jan Oblak from Atletico Madrid, amid the uncertain future of Thibaut Courtois at Stamford Bridge.
According to speculations made by Daily Star, Chelsea are plotting a move to land Atletico Madrid superstar Jan Oblak to Stamford Bridge. The Slovenian is being sought as a replacement for Thibaut Courtois, who faces an uncertain future with the West Londoners.
Oblak has been a pivotal figure for Atletico Madrid during his time so far at the La Liga club. The player was in his elements last season as well, keeping 29 clean sheets in 49 appearances across all competitions, whilst only allowing 28 goals past him as Los Rojiblancos finished second in La Liga behind Barcelona and triumphed in the Europa League.
The 25-year-old goalkeeper has been priced at an staggering amount of €100 million by Los Rojiblancos. And, Chelsea are looking to trigger his colossal release clause as they scour around for a possible replacement for Thibaut Courtois.
Chelsea had a disappointing campaign last season, as they secured 5th spot in the Premier League which eventually omitted them from the upcoming season of the Champions League. Thus, many prominent players are rumoured to leave the club, and Thibaut Courtois is no exception as he is reportedly linked with a move away to Real Madrid this summer.
Courtois has just 12 months left on his contract with Chelsea, and the West London club risk losing him in a cut-price deal this summer. Hence, newly appointed manager Maurizio Sarri is aiming to bolster up the squad with a suitable replacement of the Belgian goalkeeper.
Previously, Chelsea aimed to land Jordan Pickford from Everton. But, the Blues had to drop their plan to sign the services of the English international, who is set to sign a contract extension with the Toffees. Therefore, Oblak is a viable target for Chelsea this summer.
Meanwhile, the Slovenian international recently suggested an uncertain future at Atletico Madrid, which should give Chelsea some impetus. Oblak said, “I have a contract. Of course, I like the team we are building. People talk about things, they have their opinions, but I’ve always said I have a contract here and I don’t know what will happen in the future.”
Oblak’s statement indicates his hesitancy to commit his future solely to Atletico Madrid. This will surely boost Chelsea’s hope of landing Oblak. The 25-year old has a long career road ahead of him, and he could be a long-term recruitment in the goalkeeping department for the Blues.
