Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster has reportedly emerged as Chelsea’s top target if Thibaut Courtois moves on this summer.
Courtois has previously suggested that his future at Stamford Bridge is uncertain, as reported by ESPN FC, which in turn has put a concerned Chelsea on alert in case they need to sign a successor.
According to The Sun, Forster is the top choice and Chelsea have been linked with making a £20m move for the shot-stopper this summer.
The Southampton man returned from a serious knee injury this season to go 708 minutes without conceding a goal, while he was named Premier League player of the month in February for his continued impressive performances.
Although The Sun claim that Barcelona are also interested in signing him, it is said that Chelsea are the favourites to land him but of course the priority for the reigning Premier League champions will be to secure Courtois.
The Belgian international initially impressed on loan at Atletico Madrid, before returning to west London to displace Petr Cech and establish himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the English top flight.
However, his comments during the international break would have been a huge concern for Chelsea, and in turn that has naturally sparked speculation.
Asmir Begovic will also be keen on taking advantage of the situation by making his case to become the club’s number one option between the posts, but suggestions that Chelsea will look to the transfer market in the summer will be a worry for him.
It promises to be a fascinating summer with so many top names linked with moves around Europe, and with Chelsea set to appoint a new manager at the end of the season, his views will undoubtedly play a fundamental role in where Courtois will end up later this year.