Chelsea's recent trend of failed transfers has led to a need for owner Todd Boehly to make successful signings this summer if they are to return to challenging for trophies. One potential target is Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana, with reports suggesting that Chelsea will meet with Inter to discuss a deal that would see Onana move to Stamford Bridge in exchange for Kepa Arrizabalaga and cash.
Onana has been a revelation since arriving at Inter on a free transfer from Ajax last summer. He has displaced long-term number one Samir Handanovic from the starting XI and has been one of the best goalkeepers in Europe this season, particularly in the Champions League, where he has kept six clean sheets from 10 games.
Onana's performances have been instrumental in Inter's success this season, with his string of miraculous saves in the narrow 1-0 aggregate win over Porto in the last-16 being a key factor in their progression to the semi-finals. He is due to play in his second Champions League semi-final next month, having previously reached the same stage with Ajax in 2019.
Despite his young age for a goalkeeper, Onana has a wealth of experience at the top level, with almost 300 club appearances and 34 caps for Cameroon. He is a commanding presence in the penalty area, acting as a leader and organizer, and is also excellent with his feet, reading the game well and acting as a sweeper.
Perhaps most impressively, Onana exudes calmness and is never flustered, even in the most high-pressure situations. His confidence gives his defense a boost, and he has been one of the signings of the season in Europe in 2022-23.
While he can sometimes misjudge crosses, Onana is otherwise a very complete goalkeeper and would be a significant upgrade on Kepa. Inter may be willing to sell as they need to raise cash this summer, and feel they can replace him with Empoli's Guglielmo Vicario.
If Chelsea were to secure the signing of Onana, it would be a much-needed success in the transfer market for Boehly, who has experienced a string of misses in recent seasons. With Onana's experience, leadership, and excellent form, he could be a key factor in helping Chelsea return to challenging for trophies
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