Will Champions League exit convince Jan Oblak to seek a new challenge?
Chelsea target Jan Oblak endured a difficult night as Atletico Madrid once again fell short in the UEFA Champions League.
The Spaniards went into the game against Leipzig in high spirits after knocking out defending Champions Liverpool in the previous round. It is fair to say that Leipzig put them in their place will a deserved 2-1 victory.
The loss could prove to be a boon for Chelsea in their efforts to sign Oblak this summer. The Slovakian heads the list of potential candidates earmarked to replace Blues custodian Kepa Arrizabalaga.
The Spaniard has endured a difficult season and saw himself relegated to the bench in the final few games of the campaign. Frank Lampard is keen to bring in a new goalkeeper ahead of the 2020-21 campaign that begins next month.
According to Spanish publication AS (h/t Sky Sports), Oblak had revealed before yesterday’s game that he would consider his future at Atletico once their Champions League campaign comes to an end.
“I’ll assess the season when the last game is over.”
With that having come true against Leipzig, he now has a decision to make.
Despite emerging as a dominant force both domestically and on the continent under Diego Simeone, Atletico have often fallen short of going all the way.
Coming off the back of what has been a disappointing season, it can be argued that they are now looking at a period of rebuilding.
At 27, Oblak still has years to go at his peak. However, the prospect of a new challenge could be a subject of interest. Chelsea for their part are building a young, ambitious team capable of going all the way.
Adding the experienced ‘hand’ of Oblak to the mix will give them a solid last line of defence to count on.
Atletico are keen to keep hold of their star shot-stopper. With a mammoth £110m release clause on his head, he will cost Chelsea a king’s ransom.
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Oblak is among the finest players in his position in the world. He has consistently emerged as a match-winner for Simeone’s side. A world-class goalkeeper, he will be a significant upgrade on Kepa.