Chelsea are gearing up for a potential summer move for Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, but they face stiff competition from Manchester United, reports suggest.
Current first-choice keeper Robert Sanchez has come under scrutiny following a series of costly mistakes. While manager Enzo Maresca has publicly backed Sanchez, he hasn’t provided assurances beyond this season, leaving Chelsea exploring alternatives.
The Blues already have options within their ranks, including Filip Jorgensen, who arrived from Villarreal last summer, and Djordje Petrovic, who has impressed on loan at Strasbourg.
Young Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders is also set to join ahead of next season, adding further competition. However, Chelsea may still look to the market, with Kobel emerging as a top target.
A January move is off the table, but Chelsea are reportedly considering a summer bid for the 27-year-old Swiss international, despite his contract with Dortmund running until 2028.
Manchester United are also monitoring Kobel, as they assess their options in goal. Though Andre Onana remains the club’s No.1, reports suggest United may be open to an upgrade. Securing Kobel won’t come cheap, with Dortmund expected to demand between €70m-80m (£58m-66m).
Since joining Dortmund from Stuttgart in 2021, Kobel has made 143 appearances and earned a place in the Bundesliga Team of the Season twice. However, while United’s interest is genuine, financial constraints and other squad priorities could affect their ability to strike a deal.
Not everyone believes Onana should be replaced. Club legend Edwin van der Sar has voiced his support for the Cameroonian, insisting Onana has the qualities to be United’s long-term goalkeeper.
Meanwhile, new United boss Amorim is already making moves in the transfer market, with the club finalizing a deal for Lecce’s promising wing-back Patrick Dorgu before the January window closes.