Chelsea set to beat Manchester United to £16m goalkeeper signing and possible David De Gea replacement

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Chelsea are set to beat Manchester United to the signing of Stoke City star Asmir Begovic, reports the Daily Star.

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The Red Devils had been hoping to sign the 28-year-old as part of a plan to replace David De Gea, who could be on his way to Real Madrid [Eurosport]. It had been thought that they were readying a bid for the stopper, according to the Star. However, it looks like they will be missing out on the Bosnia international, and it is unknown if this will have a knock-on effect to the deal for their current ‘keeper.

The Stamford Bridge outfit have nipped in front of their Premier League rivals though, and are set to complete their move for the £16 million rated Bosnian.

Begovic will likely be a backup to Thibaut Courtois, with the Blues, replacing new Arsenal signing Petr Cech. It seems that the current Potters number one is happy with this step down in return for the chance to play in the Champions League and win some trophies.

Stoke manager Mark Hughes is unlikely to have a huge problem if his first-choice goalkeeper leaves, with Jack Butland ready to ste into the role. The 22-year-old played several games towards the end of last season, and also featured for England Under 21s at Euro 2015. Hughes will surely be hoping that this has given his player the experience needed to become a regular Premier League star.

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