Boost for Chelsea as Rennes eye Alphonse Areola to replace Edouard Mendy
According to French publication L’Equipe (h/t Express), Chelsea have been handed a major boost in their efforts to land Edouard Mendy.
The Rennes star is the latest goalkeeper linked with a move to Stamford Bridge. The 28-year-old played a key role as his team finished third in the 2019/20 Ligue 1 season, ensuring UEFA Champions League qualification for next season.
The Ligue 1 side is now seeking replacements in what can only be a good omen in our pursuit of the Senegalese.
According to the report, Chelsea had an initial £14million bid rejected for Mendy. This was because of Rennes’ reluctance to part ways with their custodian.
Their stance appears to have undergone a change since. In fact, their fear of losing their star keeper has seen them identify Paris Saint-Germain’s Alphonse Areola as a replacement.
The Frenchman spent last season on loan as an understudy to former Blues star Thibaut Courtois. Areola too is keen on a new challenge and is seeking regular game time.
Doing so will help his cause in making the French squad for next summer’s European championship.
Rennes could give him just that. Moreover, with Champions League football on the table, they can offer him top quality football.
As per the report, Chelsea are preparing to return with an improved offer for Mendy. The player, for his part, is also keen on a switch across the channel.
Given the troubles faced by Kepa Arrizabalaga, it comes as no surprise that a new goalkeeper is on the agenda.
PSG have already done us a favour by failing to extend Thiago Silva’s contract. They can do us yet another if they sell Areola to Rennes.
More Chelsea News
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- Chelsea want £80m for N’Golo Kante amid Inter Milan interest
- Emerson Palmieri’s agent confirms Inter Milan interest
The Blues have enjoyed an excellent transfer window of date. Chelsea have already signed the likes of Hakim Ziyech, Timo Werner, Ben Chilwell and Thiago Silva among others.
Adding a goalkeeper to the list will be the cherry on top ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.