Chelsea have reportedly added Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin to their list of potential targets.
During the second half of 2023-24, Djordje Petrovic stepped up impressively to deputise for the injured Robert Sanchez, who was unable to regain his place between the sticks even when he had recovered from a knee injury.
However, Enzo Maresca being appointed as the successor to Mauricio Pochettino will seemingly have a detrimental effect on Petrovic's future chances at Stamford Bridge.
With Sanchez being deemed to be better with the ball at his feet, the Serbia international looks likely to be sold or loaned out and an alternative backup option to Sanchez sought.
There has already been several names identified with Villarreal stopper Filip Jorgensen one of three potential candidates to be mentioned over the past 48 hours.
Nevertheless, it appears that Chelsea's recruitment team are prepared to give consideration to conducting further business with Real Madrid.
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Lunin on Chelsea shortlist
At short notice before the start of last season, Chelsea allowed Kepa Arrizabalaga to make the straight loan switch to the Bernabeu to provide cover for the injured Thibaut Courtois.
While Arrizabalaga made 20 appearances in all competitions, keeping nine clean sheets, he lost his place to Lunin for the second part of the campaign.
According to Football Insider, Chelsea have been left sufficiently impressed that they are open to sign Lunin over the coming weeks.
Despite starring for Los Blancos in 2023-24, making a total of 31 appearances, Lunin's situation has since changed courtesy of Courtois's recovery from a serious knee injury.
As it stands, Lunin will drop back to his role of number two, but the scenario is made more complex given that less than 12 months remaining on his contract.
That has seemingly left Chelsea ready to try to take advantage, aware the Ukraine international could be available for a cut-price fee.
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Could a swap deal make sense for all concerned?
From Chelsea's perspective, they may consider the possibility of facilitating a deal where Arrizabalaga or Petrovic could move in the opposite direction.
Arrizabalaga has previously spoken about wanting to complete a permanent switch to Madrid, while Petrovic may prefer to become backup at Real than at Stamford Bridge.
As for Lunin, the 25-year-old's knows that his stock has never been higher, and the decision he takes may depend on what offers arise from clubs who are prepared to make him their number one.
Darren Plant
