In a recent interview with Give Me Sport, journalist Simon Phillips revealed that Chelsea have identified Brighton and Hove Albion keeper as a top target. Phillips said,
“David Raya definitely isn’t the only one. There’s probably a good handful on the shortlist of goalkeepers that could come in.
“High up on the list is Robert Sanchez from Brighton as well. He’s another one Chelsea are taking a closer look at.”
Sanchez’s Impressive Form In English Football This Season
Sanchez is having a decent campaign at the American Express Community Stadium as he has produced a series of impressive displays as Brighton’s first-team goalkeeper. The 25-year-old has shipped in 27 goals and secured five clean sheets in 19 matches for the Seagulls this season across all fronts.
The Spanish custodian deserves some credit for averaging 0.6 clearances and 3.6 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League. However, he needs to improve his ball distribution as he has completed just 71.3% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Sanchez is currently one of the best keepers in Premier League football due to his shot-stopping ability. Therefore, it is no surprise that Chelsea want to land him.
Is Sanchez A Good Choice For Chelsea Head Coach Graham Potter?
Sanchez can be a safe pair of hands in between the sticks as he has got decent reflexes that help him pull off a few solid saves at the back. He is a good handler of the ball and doesn’t hesitate to come out of his lines to clear the danger when needed.
However, the Spanish keeper has to find a way to improve his passing accuracy if he wants to be a success story at a top club like Chelsea.
Sanchez’s current deal at Brighton is set to run out in the summer of 2025. Thus, the Blues will have to make a good offer if they are serious about recruiting him this January or at the end of this campaign. Graham Potter could be the ideal man to oversee his development and get the best out of him in the English capital after managing the player during their time together at the Amex.
Based on his recent form, Sanchez will be an upgrade over Kepa Arrizabalaga who has often been guilty of being inconsistent with his performances at Stamford Bridge. At 25, the Brighton goalie will only get better in the coming seasons which makes him a decent choice for the West London club to consider this year.
