Report: Chelsea enquire about signing goalkeeper who Cole Palmer tipped to become ‘world-class’

Chelsea are now being linked with a goalkeeper who Cole Palmer rates extremely highly.

In terms of the Chelsea squad, the goalkeeper position is one of the most interesting areas.

Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen have battled it out for the starting position in net this season at Stamford Bridge, but both have shown frailties in their game. Meanwhile, Blues-owned keepers Djordje Petrovic, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Mike Penders have impressed out on loan.

Chelsea are planning a ‘full review’ of their goalkeepers at the end of the season when the summer transfer window opens.

Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images

Chelsea enquire about Burnley gloveman James Trafford

According to The Sun, Chelsea have now asked about Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, who’s played a huge role in his side earning promotion from the Championship this season.

It is explained that the 22-year-old star is expected to leave Turf Moor this summer even though he’s been key in the promotion.

The report says that Chelsea have asked the question about Burnley’s No 1 in the hope they can negotiate a deal. However, Newcastle United are named as the frontrunners for the England Under-21 international after missing out on his signature a year ago.

Position Team Played MP Won W Drawn D Lost L For GF Against GA Diff GD Points Pts
1 LeedsLeeds 45 28 13 4 93 29 64 97
2 BurnleyBurnley 45 27 16 2 66 15 51 97
3 Sheff UtdSheffield Utd 45 28 7 10 62 35 27 89

Trafford has been truly exceptional this season in England’s second division, so it’s no surprise he’s linked with a big move.

Matches Goals conceded Clean sheets Save percentage Pass accuracy Error led to goal Saved penalties Average match rating
44 15 29 85.0% 70.2% 0 2/2 (100%) 7.52
Burnley’s James Trafford in the 2024/25 Championship season via FOTMOB

It was reported earlier in the season that James Trafford could cost just £20m after appearing on Chelsea’s shortlist. For that price, it would feel like a no-brainer to go for him.

We’d understand if Blues supporters would rather sign a more experienced and proven keeper. Alternatively, someone like Petrovic could deserve another shot with them next season.

However, Trafford looks every bit like the natural successor to Jordan Pickford as England’s first-choice goalkeeper with his potential and rapid development.

Photo by Sam Barnes - Sportsfile/UEFA via Getty Images
Photo by Sam Barnes – Sportsfile/UEFA via Getty Images

Cole Palmer once tipped James Trafford for massive success

If Trafford ends up at Chelsea, he’ll join some familiar faces, including Blues star Cole Palmer.

The duo were previously in the Manchester City academy at the same time plus played together with England’s youth teams on the international stage.

Back in July 2023, Palmer claimed that Trafford has the potential to grow into a “world-class” player further down the line.

When discussing Trafford a couple of years ago, Palmer told BBC Sport: “Wow. He’s so good. You could see it in the academy. Even in training, he’s so hard to score past. I’m just glad everyone else is seeing it… He just goes about his business on his own. I always say to him – even when we were little – that he is going to be world-class.”

It might be worth Chelsea’s recruitment team having a chat with Palmer if they’re serious about bringing Trafford to the club.



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