Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez could be heading for the exit door, as Premier League rivals West Ham consider a move for the Spaniard. Sanchez’s future at Stamford Bridge looks increasingly uncertain after a mixed 2024-25 season.
The 27-year-old joined Chelsea from Brighton for £25 million but has never fully convinced between the sticks. Despite starting ahead of Filip Jorgensen and Djordje Petrovic, Sanchez finished last season with the joint-most errors leading to goals (five) in the Premier League — a statistic that continues to cloud his position.
Although Chelsea pursued a move for AC Milan’s Mike Maignan earlier this summer, they failed to get a deal done. However, a fresh bid for a new goalkeeper is likely before the new season begins, especially as manager Enzo Maresca continues his squad overhaul.
So far this window, Chelsea have brought in Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, and Mamadou Sarr, while up to 15 players — including regulars like Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke — have been linked with moves away. Sanchez is now among those whose place at the club is under threat.
According to The Times, West Ham are keen on Sanchez as they explore replacements for Alphonse Areola. Chelsea’s Petrovic and Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale — reportedly available for £20 million — are also being considered by the Hammers.
Sanchez’s performances last season — 32 appearances, 10 clean sheets, and 95 saves — show promise, but costly lapses have raised questions. Chelsea legend Ben Foster previously criticized his mental composure, saying, “At certain moments when he needs to be calm, he panics… and that’s where all the errors start creeping in.”
Despite his recent struggles, Sanchez remains part of Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign. He featured in both their group-stage matches, a 2-0 win over LAFC and a disappointing 3-1 loss to Flamengo. The Blues must now avoid defeat against ES Tunis to stay in the competition.
With West Ham monitoring developments and Sanchez possibly open to a fresh challenge, a move away from Stamford Bridge could materialize sooner than expected.