Chelsea will face a number of crucial decisions in the summer transfer window and arguably the most important ones will be made in the goalkeeping department. Kepa Arrizabalaga and Edouard Mendy have shared the gloves for the last few seasons as five keepers have trained as part of the first-team squad this season with Marcus Bettinelli, Eddie Beach and Gabriel Slonina all joining Kepa and Mendy.
Following the January transfer window, an early short list came to light which outlined positions Chelsea wanted to strengthen in the summer. A new striker, central midfielder, central defender and goalkeeper were the four roles that the Blues were planning on targeting.
Big names such as Victor Osimhen, Jude Bellingham and Josko Gvardiol could all be the priority for each outfield position, but it wasn't entirely clear what the plan in between the sticks was. Jordan Pickford and David Raya were two Premier League keepers eyed by Chelsea, while Diogo Costa of Porto was another name linked.
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However, it now looks as though Chelsea may have made their decision as the Daily Mail report that Kepa's recent performances have been sufficient enough to hand him the No.1 spot. Because of that decision, Chelsea are now looking for a back-up goalkeeper instead of a first-choice option.
Looking for a deputy in goal hints at two things for Chelsea. The first point is in regards to Mendy, who could now leave in the summer with issues surrounding a contract extension prominent. Another notable option is that it indicates Slonina will be going on loan next season with the 18-year-old likely deemed as more of a long-term candidate for the role.
Mendy had been the consistent first choice under Thomas Tuchel, but an injury right as Potter arrived meant Kepa got the spot. A broken finger also stopped the 31-year-old from challenging the Spaniard to get his spot back but he is closing in on a return with the Mail adding Mendy has begun light training.
On top of all these significant decisions being made in between the sticks, Chelsea are also said to have held internal discussions over the future of third-choice option Marcus Bettinelli, whose contract expires at the end of this season.
All of these plans are not set in stone but it certainly indicates where Chelsea's transfer priorities lie with their decision to stick with Kepa.
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