Chelsea have decided to part ways with goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, as newly-promoted Sunderland prepare to sign him for £21.5m. The Serbian star arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2023 and plans to complete his medical later in the week.
Petrovic was a regular last season under Mauricio Pochettino but Enzo Maresca has decided to make him surplus to requirements. So with Chelsea keen to sign a younger, home-grown option, the club has reluctantly agreed to cash in on the 24-year-old.
Sunderland Land Premier League-Experienced Keeper
Sunderland have wasted no time in the transfer market after promotion – and they’re looking at Premier League experience to strengthen their squad. Petrovic ticks those boxes with 31 Chelsea appearances in all competitions last season. His shot-stopping and adept command of the area had been a bright spot in some tough periods in the 2023/24 season.
The £21.5million will be a club-record transfer fee for Sunderland who have shown their hand in the quest to play Premier League football. Reports suggest Petrovic will sign a five-year deal, having already agreed personal terms. The clubs aim to complete the transfer after he undergoes medicals and finishes the official paperwork later this week.
Chelsea Set for Goalkeeping Reshuffle
Chelsea, meanwhile, plan to fast-track academy graduate Ted Curd as a backup option while continuing talks with several European clubs about securing their next No.1. The departure of Djordje Petrovic would also be an aid to the Blues in terms of Financial Fair Play, giving them more financial freedom to work with in the summer market.
Petrovic becomes latest out of Stamford Bridge this summer with other first-team exits. His departure is part of the club’s continuing policy of trimming the squad and wage bill. His departure clears the way for further squad renewal by Maresca, who is seeking younger, more tactically adaptable characters for the forthcoming season.
