Chelsea could turn their transfer attention to solving their goalkeeping problems in the summer window with both Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga struggling to nail down the No. 1 spot. Currently the gloves are in the possession of the latter as Mendy is out injured with a broken finger, although consistent performances from Kepa have been a rarity.
It should be said the Spaniard must be given credit for his last two displays, with the Blues earning back-to-back Premier League clean sheets against Liverpool and Crystal Palace. Surprisingly, it was the latter fixture where the Spaniard was required more as he made several world class saves to stop the Eagles from finding the back of the net before Kai Havertz scored the winner.
However, some of his displays have come into question with the defeats to Fulham and Manchester City in January somewhat decided by his poor decision-making. Since the dismissal of Thomas Tuchel, Mendy has struggled to reclaim the spot he held under the German, with Potter preferring Kepa when both are available, although that has rarely happened since he became Chelsea boss in September.
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Depending on how the remainder of the season develops, a long-term option between the sticks could be acquired in the summer, although many of the Blues' Premier League rivals are also seeking a similar move. David de Gea of Manchester United and Hugo Lloris of Tottenham could be set for departures from England in the coming seasons as both clubs identify successors.
One name linked with both is Brentford star David Raya who could be sold in the summer with his contract up in 2024 and no current indication from the 27-year-old that he wants to extend his deal. Chelsea are also keeping tabs on Raya, with all three clubs making contact over a potential transfer, according to Spanish outlet Relevo.
However, Graham Potter may not need to look to the transfer market to find a new goalkeeper as the Blues may have already found and signed one. In August 2022 it was confirmed that Chelsea had beaten off interest from Real Madrid and Bayern Munich to agree a permanent transfer for Gabriel Slonina from Chicago Fire.
Although Chelsea have purchased a number of rising talents since Todd Boehly completed his takeover, it is plausible that Chelsea fans wouldn't get to see them consistently in action for a number of seasons, although the U20 World Cup has given them the opportunity to have a closer look at another possible star of the future, Andrey Santos.
Captaining tournament favourites Brazil, Santos has already showcased his abilities with a couple of superb goals for his country. Slonina has now proved that plans to make him Chelsea's first choice shot-stopper could be fast racked following an incredible double save in a friendly vs Serbia.
On his debut, the 18-year-old pulled off two wonder saves and his appearance for the USMNT also set a new record for the youngest goalkeeper ever to start for his country.
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