Jan Oblak’s speculative answer with regards to his future in a press conference has opened up the pandora’s box in connection to his move to Chelsea
Speaking about a possible summer move ahead of their quarter-final clash with RB Leipzig, Oblak told AS:
‘This is not the time for that, now it’s Leipzig.
‘I’ll look back at the season when the last game is over, and, hopefully, we’ll have three more [games to play].
The Slovenian’s refusal to dismiss this transfer rumour has sparked an intense discussion about Chelsea’s efforts to sign him in this transfer window. Atletico’s 1-2 defeat to RB Leipzig could make a significant impact in Oblak’s decision.
The goalkeeping position in Frank Lampard’s Chelsea has been up for grabs for more than a few months. Kepa Arrizabalaga has been awful this season- producing the worst stats by any top club’s goalkeeper. His backup option Willy Caballero turns 39 in Septemeber. The Blues are in dire need of refreshment.
Two years ago, Chelsea broke the transfer record to sign Kepa for a world-record fee of £71.6m and had the Spaniard sign a seven-year contract. It was believed that the former Atletico Bilbao keeper will make a significant change in Chelsea’s defense. Two years later, things are opposite.
With the shot-stopper going from one controversy to another and is certain to leave the Bridge if Chelsea are able to sign his replacement.
Jan Oblak, on the other hand, has had a completely different experience as Atletico Madrid’s No 1. Oblak took to the stage impressively and has made a real name for himself in European football. He’s one of the top five goalkeepers across Europe.
It is not a surprise that Oblak is open for a move away from Madrid. However, the release clause of €120m might be too much for Chelsea. The only way Chelsea can afford this is by seeling Kepa around the same fee which is very hard to pull off amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Chelsea are not in a financial position to pull off this deal having already bought Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner.
Chelsea identify Ajax’s Andre Onana as another candidate in this window.
