Chelsea’s latest summer signing of Gabriel Slonina from Chicago Fire has reacted to his ‘dream’ move.
On Tuesday, Thomas Tuchel’s side completed a £12 million deal for the 18-year-old goalkeeper who will remain with Chicago Fire on loan until he moves to London at the beginning of 2023.
He became the latest signing in a window that has seen the Blues acquire both Raheem Sterling and Kalidou Koulibaly.
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On top of this, Chelsea have also agreed a transfer fee for another youngster, Carney Chukwuemeka, who looks set for a £20 million move to Stamford Bridge.
The current Aston Villa man is set to sign a six-year-deal, which is the same length as Slonina’s already agreed contract.
Once the goalkeeper finishes the season with Chicago Fire, he could become the number two option for the west London side.
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Kepa Arrizabalaga has been linked with a move away from the club, Napoli are interested in completing a loan deal for the Spaniard despite being set to pay a significant amount of his wages.
Last month, Kepa revealed: “Obviously, I want to play more. It’s true that he’s choosing another teammate (Edouard Mendy) and that’s what I’m trying to change in my day-to-day life. I want to play and that’s what I train and prepare for.
“I’m at Chelsea and I want to succeed here. And if I can’t, we would have to look at different things, because my clear objective is to play.”
“I’m not desperate. At the end of the day, I’m at a very big club. I will talk to the coach and we will decide, but with the clear message that I want to play more.”
Should Kepa leave due to a lack of playing time, it could see Marcus Bettinelli promoted from the third choice keeper to Mendy’s backup, at least until January before Slonina joins.
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The young American will want to fight for this spot following his arrival, but firstly he will be hoping for a strong end to the season with Chicago Fire as they look to reach the MLS play-offs.
He is evidently looking forward to the challenge, and has shared how grateful he is for the opportunity that has been handed to him.
Taking to social media, Slonina shared: “Thank you to everyone at the club for making a childhood dream come true and thank you to the fans for an amazing warm welcome. The hard work starts now.”
He added: "Honoured to join such a massive club with so much history. It’s a privilege to wear the badge of the best side in London.
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"Thank you to all the fans for the warm welcome. Can’t wait to get started."
Following this signing, it remains to be seen what other transfer activity the Blues will involve themselves in with their new Premier League campaign commencing on Saturday against Everton.
Topics: Gabriel Slonina, Chelsea, Thomas Tuchel, Transfers, Football
Sam Collins