Chelsea set sights on ‘another Brighton player’ to follow four deals already done
Chelsea have set their sights on a potential deal to sign Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and could make a move in the summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old has been a long-term target at Stamford Bridge amid ongoing concerns about their current goalkeeping options, with a potential upgrade being eyed.
This would see the Netherlands international become the latest player to make the switch from the Amex after Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez, Moises Caicedo and Joao Pedro.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Verbruggen ticks a number of boxes as the type of goalkeeper Chelsea and Liam Rosenior want.
His Premier League experience with the Seagulls has proven he can cut it at the top level, while they believe he would be a clear upgrade on Sanchez.
Chelsea plot move to sign Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen
Brown told Football Insider last year that Brighton will demand a “massive” fee for Verbruggen as they aim to deter interest from the likes of Chelsea and Man United.
The Red Devils are also believed to have expressed an interest in the goalkeeper in the past, but are now happy with the progress of Senne Lammens in goal.
“Chelsea are definitely keeping an eye on Verbruggen,” Brown told Football Insider.
“I know Man United have looked at him before as well, but that seems to have faded and I think they’re happy with the options they’ve got.
“Chelsea on the other hand, I don’t think they’re happy with Sanchez.
“He’s not that sort of calming, consistent presence you want at the back to control things, he can be a bit all over the place at times and that’s not good.
“Verbruggen is a good goalkeeper, he’s composed in possession and he’s a good shot-stopper, so he’ll tick a lot of boxes for Chelsea in that respect.
“I can see that happening in the summer, definitely. It’s another Brighton player going to Chelsea, they seem to have a good relationship there which always helps.”
Chelsea join Liverpool in race to sign Nottingham Forest star
A new goalkeeper is not the only addition Chelsea are considering ahead of the summer transfer window, as they are also keen to land a new centre-back.
Football Insider revealed on 17 February that Chelsea are interested in Nottingham Forest star Murillo, and have joined Liverpool in the race for his signature.
The Blues are believed to have the advantage over their rivals as things stand, though, after Liverpool beat them to sign Rennes star Jeremy Jacquet.
Murillo has been a long-term target at Stamford Bridge after they saw an offer turned down in January 2025, when he opted to renew his terms at Forest.
Now, with Vitor Pereira’s side stuck in a fierce relegation battle, there is a possibility the defender could be tempted to leave the City Ground.
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