Chelsea plot surprise move for former Fulham stopper

Chelsea seem to have had a number of ‘problem positions’ in recent seasons, with the Blues seemingly unable to find the perfect fit. 

The club’s recent succession of strikers has left a lot to be desired, with the likes of Andriy Shevchenko, Mateja Kezman, Fernando Torres and Alvaro Morata all struggling in front of goal for the Blues despite being prolific elsewhere.

In recent seasons, it has been between the sticks that Chelsea have struggled to find the right player.

Since the departure of Petr Cech, the Blues have had a string of goalkeepers who have almost all failed to impress.

The most notorious of which, Kepa Arrizabalaga, now finds himself as second choice ‘keeper at the club, despite still being the most expensive goalkeeper in the history of football.

After a relatively steady first season in England, the Spaniard’s form dropped massively and he was eventually replaced as first choice by Edouard Mendy.

Bettinelli joined Fulham at the age of 14 and went on to graduate from their academy.

Now, it appears that the club could be looking to sign another goalkeeper, but it may come as something of a surprise.

According to the Telegraph, Chelsea are chasing former Fulham man Marcus Bettinelli, with the idea being that he would replace the departed Willy Caballero as the club’s third choice.

The 29-year-old, who departed Chelsea’s West London rivals in July, would qualify as one of the squad’s home-grown players.

Veteran goalkeeper Rob Green was signed in a similar role three years ago, but was never called upon by then manager Maurizio Sarri.

Bettinelli spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough and kept 13 clean sheets in 41 games for the Championship side.

The Englishman has played seven times in the top flight – all coming for the Cottagers during the 2018/19 season.