Chelsea to MISS OUT on key target after surprise transfer decision

Bayern Munich have reportedly identified Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen as an ideal long-term replacement for Manuel Neuer.

The Netherlands international has established himself as the undisputed first choice shot-stopper under Fabian Hurzeler this campaign and his form has attracted substantial transfer interest from across Europe.

Chelsea are reportedly tracking the 22-year-old as they ponder yet another Brighton raid, although Bayern have now joined the race to sign him, according to The Mirror, in their bid to sign Neuer’s eventual successor.

READ MORE: Chelsea PUSHING to sign ‘next Neymar’

Verbruggen worked with Bayern boss Vincent Kompany during their time together at Anderlecht and the former Manchester City defender is reportedly eager to sign the Dutchman this summer.

The 22-year-old currently has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €30.9 million, but Brighton will demand a fee of at least €60m to even contemplate a sale when the 2025 summer transfer window opens, as per The Mirror.

Verbruggen has kept seven clean sheets in 28 matches across all competitions so far this season, while his current contract at Brighton isn’t due to expire until 2028.

READ MORE: Chelsea lose FORTUNE after January transfer disaster

Bart Verbruggen to Chelsea unlikely

Although Chelsea are reportedly interested in rivalling Bayern for Verbruggen’s signature this summer, they aren’t expected to sign a new goalkeeper in 2025.

Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen have both made several high-profile errors so far this campaign, but they are set to compete for the number one berth yet again next season, along with Djordje Petrovic.

Petrovic, 25, was sent out on loan to Strasbourg in August, however his form in Ligue 1 has been remarkably impressive and he is expected to return to the first-team fold at Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.

Furthermore, KRC Genk wonderkid Mike Penders will arrive at Chelsea in July, although he isn’t expected to play a role in the senior team next year.