Chelsea is on the verge of securing their eighth signing of the summer transfer window, with Villarreal goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen set to join the club.
The 22-year-old Danish Under-21 international is expected to sign a contract until 2031, after a £20.7m fee was agreed upon between the two clubs.
Jorgensen made 44 first-team appearances for Villarreal last season, establishing himself as the club’s No. 1 goalkeeper and helping them secure an eighth-place finish in La Liga. He is now poised to challenge Robert Sanchez for the starting position at Chelsea, with Sanchez being favored by manager Enzo Maresca for his superior play with his feet.
After an injury to Sanchez, Djordje Petrovic, who impressed under former boss Mauricio Pochettino, appears to be on his way out of Stamford Bridge. Maresca’s decision to reinstate Sanchez was based on tactical considerations, particularly his ability to launch the ball long from goal kicks when opponents marked Chelsea players man-to-man.
In a recent match against Celtic, which Chelsea lost 4-1, Maresca explained some of his tactical choices. “We prepared on the tactical board and didn’t have time to try everything in training,” he said. “In the first half, we had a few chances, and in the second half, we were good until the third goal. We didn’t concede any shots until the 75th minute.”
Jorgensen has traveled to the United States to meet with his new manager and teammates and to complete his medical. Confirmation of his signing is expected soon. Despite the team’s recent defensive struggles, Maresca remained tight-lipped about Jorgensen’s arrival. “They are still Villarreal players,” he said with a smile. “The moment they arrive, we will make some comment.”
Jorgensen’s imminent arrival brings optimism to a Chelsea side looking to bounce back from their preseason loss to Celtic, and he is expected to play a significant role in the club’s future.
