Chelsea target Real Madrid youth talent with 18 months left on contract for problem position | OneFootball

Chelsea are being linked with another new goalkeeper as the Blues’ struggles in goal go on.

Despite the endless claims from sources within the club that they’re delighted with first choice option Robert Sanchez, and thrilled by the talent of younger options like Filip Jorgensen and Mike Penders, the links to new signings continue, showing that not everyone is convinced.

Yesterday the talk was all about Liverpool’s very handy Alisson stand in Caoimhin Kelleher, but no sooner had that rumour hit the internet than there were all sorts of briefings going out denying it. But the frantic way those stories were rubbished only served to convince us further that there are indeed plans to bring in a new option to compete with the consistently disappointing Sanchez.

Fran Gonzalez of Real Madrid warming up. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Chelsea line up Fran to add to impressive keeper collection

Today it’s a more interesting angle. Football Espana have translated claims from Spanish outlet Relevo (which usually has some good stuff) that Real Madrid youth goalkeeper Fran Gonzales is a potential target.

Chelsea are “following him closely” and are “willing to make an offer for him.”

Fran has also recently been promoted from Spain’s U19 setup to the U21s, another sign of his really impressive progression.

The 19 year old has just over 18 months left on his contract, and Madrid are keen to extend that to ensure they retain control of his future. But if Chelsea star their overtures now, they could feasibly persuade Madrid to sell for a reasonable sum in the summer, when the youngster will have just one year left on his current deal.

We have our doubts that we’d commit serious money to this deal – at least until we know what Penders’ potential looks like – but it seems likely we’re attentive to what happens with Fran’s contract.