Chelsea have expressed an interest in signing Trabzonspor’s goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir, according to reports from Turkish outlet Fotospor.
Chelsea Eye up Kepa Arrizabalaga Replacement
Cakir’s Impressive Season
Trabzonspor’s 23-year-old shot-stopper has impressed throughout the season, as Daniel Sturridge’s former employers seek their first Turkish league title since 1984.
Cakir, who has been at the club throughout his career, has played a huge part in his side’s success so far this season, sparking interest from a host of clubs in Europe.
The keeper has impressed with his ability to claim the ball from set-pieces, as well as his shot-stopping exploits. He has impressed Trabzonspor’s assistant manager Eddie Newton who has recommended him to his old club, Chelsea.
Lampard on the Lookout for New Number One
It is no secret that Frank Lampard may wish to add to his goalkeeping options over the summer, as both Kepa Arrizabalaga and Willy Caballero have struggled to nail down a starting position over the past few weeks.
Kepa began the season as the Blue’s first-choice goalkeeper but was dropped in favour of the Argentine after a number of below-par performances.
However, Caballero has also had his critics in recent week, notably gifting Ben Chilwell a goal in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City at the start of February.
Kepa came back into the starting line-up in Chelsea’s most recent game, impressing in a 2-0 win over Liverpool in the FA Cup, but doubts remain over the Spanish goalkeeper, and Lampard may look to replace the 25-year-old with Cakir in the next transfer window.
No Shortage of Admirers
Chelsea may have competition if they are to try sign Cakir however. Reports in the past have suggested that Liverpool have shown interest in the Turkish international, with Trabzonspor owner Ahmet Agaoglu going on record to say:
“There are offers for Cakir, we continue to receive offers. It’s been said Liverpool have made an offer,”
“So a team that is undefeated in the Premier League wants my keeper. In other words Liverpool’s goalkeeper is in my goal.”
Of course, Liverpool are no longer unbeaten after their 3-0 defeat to Watford. But, Jurgen Klopp may also be looking to add to his goalkeeping options for next season.
Tottenham Hotspur, Everton and Newcastle United have also been linked to Cakir in the past few months; Sheffield United reportedly had a bid turned down earlier this year.
Trabzonspor current value their number one at £26 million. This is despite the fact he has only made two appearances so far for the Turkish national team.
The Süper Lig club might have a large valuation in place. But, they may struggle to keep hold of their goalkeeper in the summer transfer window.
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