Report: Chelsea believe they have a player with “absolutely elite” potential, still hasn’t made his debut
Chelsea believe goalkeeper Mike Penders has “absolutely elite” potential, and was a big reason they didn’t strengthen the position in the summer according to reports.
The Blues signed Penders from Belgian club Genk in the summer of 2024 in a deal thought to be worth around €20m.
Penders spent last season at Genk, but is currently on loan at sister club Strasbourg where he’s put in some impressive performances.
Chelsea feel Mike Penders has “absolutely elite” potential
The Blues had the opportunity to sign Mike Maignan last summer, but weren’t prepared to get close to AC Milan’s valuation.
Ultimately they stuck with their existing options, and given the form of Robert Sanchez this season that doesn’t look a bad decision.
The Blues will have a decision to make on Penders in the summer and whether he’s ready to challenge for the number one spot next season.
However, Mail Sport have reported sources inside Chelsea believe Penders has “absolutely elite” potential and was a big reason the Blues didn’t commit to signing a new goalkeeper last summer.
The reports adds Liam Rosenior and the decision makers at Chelsea will assess nearer the time if Penders is ready to be part of the first team squad or needs another loan.
Filip Jorgensen wants to leave Chelsea
Whilst it appears Penders has a big future at Chelsea, the opposite can be said for Filip Jorgensen who reportedly wants to leave the club.
Jorgensen joined from Villarreal in the summer of 2024 in a deal worth £20.9m, but has played second fiddle to Sanchez for the majority of his time at the club.
The Dane reportedly wants to leave for more regular football as he looks to become Denmark’s number one at the World Cup this summer.
West Ham are thought to be interested along with Turkish side Besiktas, but Chelsea reportedly don’t want to let him leave this month.
