Borussia Dortmund’s goalkeeper Gregor Kobel is set to become a hot commodity during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Several Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea have all expressed interest in the Swiss international.
Liverpool may have to look for a new second choice goalkeeper as Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to leave the club for more playing time elsewhere.
Man United are looking to provide Andre Onana with competition in order to improve his performances.
Man City may have to find a replacement of Ederson this summer with the player linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League.
As for Chelsea, Robert Sanchez’s struggles at the club this season have been evident and it is not a surprise to see Chelsea target a move for new goalkeeper.
According to Caught Offside sources, with Dortmund setting a price tag of €50-55 million (£43-47 million) for their goalkeeper, the English clubs are treading carefully and are exploring alternative targets to avoid paying the full asking price.
Rather than rushing into a big-money deal, these clubs are leveraging Dortmund’s current situation.
Dortmund’s uncertainty about securing a Champions League place next season could weaken their negotiating stance.
A failure to qualify for Europe’s elite competition would almost certainly force Dortmund into a summer sale of key players, including Kobel, potentially at a reduced fee.
The Swiss goalkeeper has made 43 appearances for the Bundesliga side this season.
Liverpool and Man United turn attention to other targets
Premier League clubs are maintaining parallel negotiations with other goalkeeper targets which is putting pressure of Dortmund at the moment.
Financial Fair Play regulations, tighter budgets, and long-term squad planning have made English clubs much more measured in their approach, even when pursuing top-level players.
Dortmund find themselves in a delicate position. On one hand, they view Kobel as a critical part of their spine and would prefer to retain him. On the other, missing out on Champions League revenue could necessitate significant sales, making them vulnerable to offers slightly below their valuation.
England’s biggest clubs are unwilling to overspend and are prepared to pivot to other options if necessary.
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