Chelsea On Verge Of Sealing First Signing Of Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital Era

Chelsea are on the verge of completing their first signing under the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital ownership, according to reports.

The Blues have been heavily linked with the likes of Jules Kounde during the transfer window, however it appears that a different name will be the first signing under the new ownership.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are ‘really close’ to finalising a deal for Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina.

The Italian journalist reports that a fee of €10 million is expected as Chelsea look like they will beat Real Madrid to the signature of the goalkeeper.

This comes after it was revealed that Chelsea had submitted an improved bid for the shotstopper after Real Madrid had been in contact with the MLS club over a move.

Romano previously stated that Los Blancos had a bid turned down by Chicago Fire last week.

Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina during the MLS match against Atlanta United. (Alamy)

Chelsea’s Technical and Performance advisor Petr Cech admitted that the Blues are expecting a busy summer ahead, with Thomas Tuchel set to add several players to his squad, including Slonina, who is now expected to be named as the first signing of the new ownership.

Chelsea’s most expensive goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga could also leave this summer. He will hold honest talks with Tuchel regarding his future. 

Edouard Mendy is the firm number one in west London after his arrival from Stade Rennais which has left Kepa on the bench and limited of game time. 

“It depends what he wants and what his plans are,” Tuchel said last month over whether or not the Spaniard would remain at Chelsea next season.

Gabriel Slonina against Toronto FC in the MLS. (Alamy)

“I know that we are very privileged to have Edou and Kepa in our squad but I also know for sure that Kepa is not happy about the situation because he deserved to play more and he can be a very strong number one. He arrived as a number one so the situation is not easy. He has been a fantastic team player since day one and never let anybody down. 

“We did not have a conversation yet but I know that the goalkeeper coaches have these conversations at the moment and then we will take our time to speak with him and reflect on what’s best and what the possibilities are. As a coach, of course I’m super happy to have both strong goalkeepers so let’s see.”

It remains to be seen as to what role Slonina will play next season, with Kepa potentially leaving the club in the summer but it looks likely that the 18-year-old will return to Chicago Fire for the campaign.