Chelsea are close to reaching an agreement with Rennes to sign goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, according to reports.
Frank Lampard is interested in signing a new goalkeeper to provide competition for Kepa Arrizabalaga after the Spaniard’s poor performances last campaign.
Petr Cech, who returned to Stamford Bridge as Chelsea’s technical and performance advisor last year, is believed to be behind their push to sign Mendy.
Chelsea have already had a bid rejected by Rennes this summer but according to The Guardian, the Premier League side have continued talks with he French club and are now close to finalising a £18.2m deal.
The report claims that the move could eventually increase to £25m after add-ons. Mendy has impressed for Rennes, who have qualified for this campaign’s Champions League, after his £3.5m move from Stade Reims last year.
The Senegal international is set to become Chelsea’s seventh new signing this summer window after Chilwell, Hakim Ziyech, Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Thiago Silva & Malang Sarr.
While speaking last month, Cech conceded that Kepa had struggled and revealed that Chelsea were aiming to improve their goalkeeping options this summer.
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‘Kepa struggled last season, that is unquestionable,’ said the former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper.
‘But the club invested in him and gave him a long-term contract because they believe he has the qualities and attributes to be successful.
‘Additions will be made to the squad, perhaps even in goal, and this is what is being discussed now. ‘But nobody is giving up on Kepa and we all hope he has a great future.’
