Chelsea have identified a teenager yet to make his League One debut as a potential future first-choice goalkeeper, according to reports.
The goalkeeping position is simultaneously one that Chelsea do not have to think too much about in the transfer market, and one that they do. They unearthed one of the best goalkeepers in Europe when bringing Edouard Mendy to the Premier League last year.
Mendy has impressed thoroughly since, meaning they won’t be on the lookout for a new number one any time soon. But their plans always have to evolve if they want to make their recent success a long-term thing.
They are dealing with a dilemma in the hierarchy behind Mendy. Kepa Arrizbalaga remains the most expensive goalkeeper in history, but isn’t getting the gametime to reflect that. As such, he looks likely to leave at some point in 2022.
Chelsea would therefore need to weigh up how to provide different competition for Mendy. And it seems they are eyeing someone who could succeed him in the long term.
According to The Sun, Chelsea have been scouting James Beadle, who plays in the youth ranks for Charlton Athletic and England.
Aged 17, he is yet to make his senior debut. However, his potential is high enough for Chelsea to view him as a possible future number one.
Beadle is not yet under a professional contract with Charlton, who could therefore lose him for a tiny sum. But they are aiming to monetise his exit if possible and could ask for around £400,000.
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