Chelsea are believed to be preparing for a fierce transfer battle with several European clubs to secure the services of Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
The Dutch international has produced a strong season despite Brighton’s struggles, recording five clean sheets across 25 Premier League matches. Verbruggen has also played a key role in earning points for the Seagulls with a series of crucial saves throughout the campaign.
The former Anderlecht goalkeeper has previously been linked with a move away from Brighton on multiple occasions, with Bayern Munich regarded as one of his biggest admirers.
The Bundesliga giants are searching for a long-term successor to Manuel Neuer, and Verbruggen’s performances have placed him high on their shortlist. However, Bayern are not the only club tracking his progress.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are planning a determined move for Verbruggen at the end of the season, with head coach Liam Rosenior keen to recruit a new first-choice goalkeeper this summer.
Tottenham and Newcastle are also monitoring the 23-year-old’s situation, but neither club can currently offer regular Champions League football, which puts Chelsea in a stronger position compared to their Premier League competitors.
Verbruggen is reportedly open to leaving Brighton this summer to take the “next step” in his career, although it is still unclear whether he would prefer to remain in England or make a switch to Germany.
Brighton are expected to demand more than £50 million for their No.1 goalkeeper, but Chelsea have already indicated they are willing to meet that valuation.
Chelsea co-sporting director Paul Winstanley and head of global goalkeeping Ben Roberts both previously worked at Brighton before moving to Stamford Bridge, and the pair conducted “extensive scouting work” on Verbruggen prior to their departures.
Although the Netherlands international joined Brighton after they left the club, Winstanley and Roberts are said to be fully supportive of Chelsea’s pursuit of the goalkeeper.
