A potential 2024 move might see Chelsea scout a pair of La Liga goalkeepers

The 2-2 tie between Athletic Club and Valencia on Sunday was observed by Chelsea scouts, with the Blues executives keeping an eye on both goalkeepers Giorgi Mamardashvili and Unai Simon.

Despite signing both Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic during the recent summer transfer window, Chelsea has been on the hunt for a new goalkeeper since September, and Mamardashvili is their top goalkeeper target at the moment. Stamford Bridge officials were in attendance over the weekend to witness the 23-year-old Valencia goalkeeper, but it’s believed they also used the opportunity to make notes about Unai Simon.

After Kepa Arrizabalaga transferred to Chelsea in 2018, Simon, 26, who is Spain’s primary goalkeeper, took Kepa’s spot in the goal for Athletic. Although signing a new goalkeeper in January is very doubtful indeed, insiders have told The Ball Is Square that it hasn’t been officially ruled out either. Chelsea is happy with Sanchez as their starting goalie and does not currently have any intentions of signing a replacement.

Officials were also back in the stands watching Porto’s Diogo Costa against Barcelona earlier this month. Chelsea had examined the Portugal international this summer before going with Sanchez, the cheaper option. 

Chelsea is keeping an eye on Aaron Ramsdale’s circumstances at Arsenal, while Everton’s Jordan Pickford has also been monitored. Although reports suggest Ramsdale’s position may ease in the upcoming months if he is not included in Mikel Arteta’s starting lineup going forward, the player is eager to defend his spot at the Emirates after being benched in favour of David Raya.

Chelsea, however, is still eager to sign the best young players in the league and has added Leny Yoro from Lille and Valentin Barco from Boca Juniors to their list of targets.