USMNT goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina has been tipped to become Chelsea’s number one goalkeeper as part of the club’s long-term plan.
The Illinois-born goalkeeper, who turns 19 today, signed from Chicago Fire for $10m which could potentially rise to $15m in add-ons, and is seen as a future star at Stamford Bridge by Chelsea executives who seek to improve on a position where neither Kepa Arrizabalaga nor Edouard Mendy have convinced this season.
Chelsea expect Gabriel Slonina to become top goalkeeper
According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea predicts that in four years’ time, Slonina will be between the sticks at Stamford Bridge on a regular basis, having already made his senior international debut for the United States in January in the 2-1 defeat to Slovenia, becoming the youngest-ever goalkeeper to play for the United States senior team.
Gaga is 18 mate… Chelsea are sure he'll be a top GK but it could take something like 4 years, GK is role where it takes time to be ready for top top clubs. Another one now for this "Poch cycle" and then Slonina at some point in the future years would be club's ideal plan. 😉
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 14, 2023
The American is yet to make his debut for the Blues but has faired well for the under-21 side, playing eight times in the Premier League 2, keeping three clean sheets.