Chelsea closing in on goalkeeping wonderkid Gabriel Slonina
Chelsea are closing in on Chicago Fire shot-stopper Gabriel Slonina, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The 18-year-old was being monitored by Real Madrid before the Blues joined the race, and now it seems they are frontrunners to acquire his signature.
Los Blancos had even registered a bid for the wonderkid, and much to their surprise, perhaps, they weren’t able to test the Chicago Fire’s resolve. As per Romano’s latest update, this transfer will develop into one of the record-breaking deals in Major League Soccer.
Originally of Polish descent, Slonina was born and raised in the United States. He is one of the many young stars born out of the MLS circuit; clearly evident from the USA international team’s exploits over the last few years.
The 18-year-old possesses quick reflexes, makes extraordinary saves and is not someone that lets the occasion get to him, despite his tender age and inexperience.
Making his professional debut against giants New York City FC, Slonina became the youngest goalkeeper to feature in the league, at 17 years and 81 days. He’s also the youngest to keep a clean sheet.
Having chosen to represent the United States, Slonina has recorded 25 appearances for Chicago Fire.
Transfer valuation and future
It was reported that Chelsea were in contact with Fire in February as well. He is valued at around €10m, making it a bold decision for whoever wants to trigger the clause.
With talks already underway, Slonina could be Chelsea’s first signing in the Todd Boehly era. It’s been about two weeks since the sanctions were lifted and the Blues were allowed to execute financial transactions and transfers in the market.
They recently confirmed the departure of four players, including Danny Drinkwater, youth prospect Jake Clarke-Salter, Andreas Christensen and Charly Musonda.
Meanwhile, they’re linked with moves for Jules Kounde, Ousmane Dembele and Declan Rice, whilst talks over a fresh contract could begin soon with Reece James and Mason Mount.
One thing is for sure, the last thing they’d want is to move at a laboured pace in this alarmingly demanding transfer market.
As far as Slonina is concerned, he’d most likely be loaned out a few times should the transfer get confirmed. Presently, as Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future hangs in the balance, Nathan Baxter, who was on loan at Hull City, appears to be an option as Edouard Mendy’s understudy.
-Akarshak Roy
Twitter: @RoyAkarshak