Currently, the Blues are planning to enter the 2026/27 season with Robert Sanchez and Mike Penders in goal, following Filip Jorgensen’s request to leave the club. Sanchez has faced criticism since joining Stamford Bridge, and Penders has yet to prove himself in the Premier League.
Costa at the top of Chelsea’s transfer list
Costa has long been on Chelsea’s radar after excellent displays for Porto, with his stock rising after his World Cup performances. Although goalkeeper targets were not initially a priority following Xabi Alonso’s appointment, plans have shifted this summer, with Chelsea now viewing a world-class stopper as essential to competing at the highest level.
Transfer insider Ekrem Konur has reported that Chelsea has positioned Costa as the centerpiece of their summer transfer plans, ahead of Paris Saint-Germain in the race to sign him. According to Konur, Chelsea have designated Costa as their number one target, and while no formal bid has yet been submitted, officials are preparing to take concrete steps to secure his signature. Porto, however, are reluctant to part with the Portuguese international, and sources say his €60 million release clause remains a major consideration. Despite the significant investment, internal consensus at Chelsea is that strengthening between the posts is crucial to reclaim top form in the Premier League. PSG is also monitoring Costa, but Chelsea reportedly have the clearest plan and are treating this transfer as a top priority. The evolving situation around Costa is shaping up to be one of the standout goalkeeper moves of the window, with Porto’s stance on the release clause, Chelsea’s financial backing, and PSG’s interest all factors destined to influence the final outcome.
Costa would be a significant upgrade on Sanchez
Chelsea’s summer plans include a strong emphasis on selling players, following their lack of European football this coming season. Early departures have included Marc Cucurella, Tyrique George, and Andrey Santos as the club reshapes the squad. The goalkeeper position has been a notable weakness, even though Sanchez showed improved form last season. In the 2024/25 campaign, no shot-stopper made more errors leading to goals than the Spaniard. A move for Costa would bring a goalkeeper comfortable with distribution and capable of playing in a ball-dominant style, aligning with a system that stresses playing out from the back.
Overall, securing Costa would mark a substantial upgrade for Chelsea in the goalkeeping department, providing a frontline option that could help stabilize the side and support a renewed push for top-tier finishes.
