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Chelsea transfer rumours: Enzo Maresca 'looking to sign 26-year-old goalkeeper'

By Ben Sully | 03 June 2024

Newly-appointed head coach Enzo Maresca is reportedly keen to recruit Las Palmas goalkeeper Alvaro Valles ahead of the 2024-25 season.

Newly-appointed Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is reportedly interested in signing Las Palmas goalkeeper Alvaro Valles.

Earlier on Monday, the Blues confirmed that Maresca had left his role as Leicester City boss to take over the reins at Stamford Bridge, penning a five-year deal with an option to extend by a further 12 months.

The new head coach will now work with Chelsea's recruitment team to strengthen the squad ahead of the 2024-25 season.

The Blues are believed to be on the lookout for a new goalkeeper despite having the likes of Robert Sanchez, Djordje Petrovic, and Gabriel Slonina on their books.

Petrovic spent the second half of last season as Chelsea's first-choice goalkeeper, producing consistent displays in his 23 Premier League appearances.

Las Palmas' Alvaro Valles in action with FC Barcelona's Vitor Roque on January 4, 2024 © Reuters

Chelsea eyeing Valles move

While Petrovic has proven to be a reliable option, Maresca wants to recruit a ball-playing goalkeeper for his first season as a Premier League manager.

According to football.london, Chelsea have added Las Palmas' shot-stopper Valles to their list of potential summer targets.

The 26-year-old goalkeeper has proven to be a front-foot goalkeeper, regaining possession 38 times in the 2023-24 season – more than any other shot-stopper in Europe's highest-profile leagues.

Valles featured in 37 of Las Palmas' 38 league matches, helping the club achieve safety in their first La Liga campaign since 2017-18.

Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca reacts on March 17, 2024 © Reuters

Blues considering alternative options

Although Valles appears to be on their radar, Chelsea are said to be considering a number of alternatives, including Valencia's Giorgi Mamardashvili.

The Georgia international has been identified as a possible option after preventing more goals than any other goalkeeper during the most recent La Liga campaign.

The Blues are also keeping tabs on another La Liga goalkeeper, Villarreal's 22-year-old shot-stopper Filip Jorgensen.

In regards to domestic options, Maresca is showing an interest in James Trafford after working with the youngster during his time at Manchester City.