Chelsea’s search for a new goalkeeper continues after Gregor Kobel made it clear he has no intention of leaving Borussia Dortmund this summer. Despite months of interest and contact from the London club, the Swiss international has chosen to remain at Westfalenstadion.
The 27-year-old, who helped BVB secure Champions League football with a fourth-place Bundesliga finish, values the connection he has with Dortmund’s fans, the club atmosphere, and life in Germany. His commitment was cemented when his representatives informed the club’s sporting director that any potential move to Stamford Bridge was completely off the table.
With Chelsea aiming to replace an inconsistent Robert Sanchez, Kobel had been a long-standing target. However, he dismissed suggestions that playing in the Premier League was ever an ambition. For him, it was never a dream destination, making the decision to stay a relatively easy one.
Kobel’s importance to Dortmund has only grown, especially as he played through the pain of a torn ankle ligament and illness during the crucial final weeks of last season. His resilience has been praised, and now he’s focused on leading his team into the Club World Cup, relishing the opportunity to face elite competition from other continents.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s efforts to sign Mike Maignan have also hit a snag. Despite interest in the AC Milan shot-stopper, the Blues hesitated at the £21 million asking price, throwing that deal into uncertainty.
Enzo Maresca, now at the helm, confirmed that Robert Sanchez remains his No.1 for now, with Filip Jorgensen as backup. Maresca also downplayed ongoing transfer speculation, emphasizing that current squad evaluations take priority.
As Chelsea continues exploring other options, Dortmund’s No.1 remains firmly rooted in Germany, prioritizing stability and ambition at a club where he feels at home.