Bournemouth Target Chelsea’s Petrovic in £25m Goalkeeper Bid
Bournemouth have launched a formal bid to sign Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, as they look to secure a reliable first-choice shot-stopper ahead of the new Premier League season.
Although Chelsea have not yet accepted the offer, talks between the two clubs are said to be progressing positively. Petrovic, 25, is reportedly eager to leave Stamford Bridge in search of regular first-team football, which he hasn’t consistently enjoyed under the current management.
Bournemouth have had their eyes on the Serbian international for over a year, and their pursuit has intensified following the departure of Kepa Arrizabalaga. Kepa, who spent last season on loan at the Cherries, has now joined Arsenal permanently after the Gunners triggered his £5 million release clause earlier this month.
Petrovic is currently valued at around £25 million and signed an initial seven-year contract with Chelsea in 2023 after arriving from MLS side New England Revolution. Despite his long-term deal, the goalkeeper is pushing for a move and even opted out of Chelsea’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup.
However, Bournemouth have been informed of a potential image rights issue that must be resolved to complete the signing.
During the last campaign, Djordje Petrovic enjoyed a loan spell with French side Strasbourg, where he impressed significantly and was named the club’s Player of the Season. Strasbourg, along with Sunderland and AS Monaco, are also monitoring the situation closely.
Interestingly, Strasbourg is owned by the same Todd Boehly-led consortium that owns Chelsea, which could make negotiations between the clubs more fluid. Petrovic ended up at Strasbourg last season after being deemed not technically strong enough by Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, particularly in terms of footwork. However, sources close to the player say he made notable progress in that area while in Ligue 1.
Back at Chelsea, the Blues currently have Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, and new summer signing Mike Penders in the squad, all currently in the United States where Chelsea are competing in the FIFA Club World Cup final.
The next few days could be crucial in determining whether Bournemouth can wrap up a deal for Petrovic as they prepare for the upcoming season.
