In a recent report, Foot Mercato stated that Chelsea have identified Inter Milan keeper Andre Onana as a target for the summer transfer window. It is believed that the Blues are willing to use Edouard Mendy as a makeweight to bring the Cameroonian custodian to Stamford Bridge in this off-season.
Onana’s Impressive Form In Italian Football This Season
Onana has caught the eye with his performances in goal for Inter Milan over the past ten months. His incredible contributions helped the Italian club reach the UEFA Champions League final where they will now face off against Manchester City.
The Cameroon international has conceded 35 goals and earned 19 clean sheets in 40 matches for the Milan giants this season across all competitions. Onana has done well to average 0.6 clearances and 6.1 long balls per game in Serie A. He has even distributed the ball relatively well from the back after making 79.2% of his attempted passes in the Italian top tier (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at San Siro is set to run out in the summer of 2027. Thus, it won’t be easy for the Blues to get him on board in the upcoming transfer window.
What Will Onana Add To Chelsea Boss Mauricio Pochettino’s Side?
Onana can be a safe pair of hands in between the sticks for his team and has got decent reflexes that allow him to make a few solid saves at the back. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when needed and is a tidy passer of the ball as well from inside his half.
The Cameroonian sensation is a good handler of the ball as well. Hence, he will fit Chelsea’s needs well this summer.
Mauricio Pochettino is in dire need of a reliable goalkeeper as both Cesar Azpilicueta and Edouard Mendy have struggled to be consistent for the Blues in recent seasons.
Onana would be a good solution to Chelsea‘s goalkeeping concerns as he is currently playing in his prime and could help the West London club challenge for some major honours in the not-too-distant future.
We can expect him to add more quality to Pochettino’s first XI at Stamford Bridge next season as long as he can make a smooth transition to life in the English capital.
