The Chelsea stopper is out of contract and former boss Manuel Pellegrini could look for a reunion as he seeks a viable backup for Lukasz Fabianski.
Chelsea are still under dark clouds regarding their transfer ban although there could be a few expected outgoings at Stamford Bridge when the transfer window opens. The London Evening Standard are reporting of a possible move for veteran goalkeeper Willy Caballero who is out of contract, and West Ham are looking to sign him on a free transfer.
Caballero signed for Chelsea from Manchester City back in 2017 and is considered a decent back up to Kepa Arrizabalaga at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are yet to signal their intention to keep him at the club for next season, and it has allowed the veteran stopper to explore other options.
West Ham are said to be interested in bringing him to the London Stadium for next season as Caballero’s former boss and current Hammers manager Manuel Pellegrini looks for a reunion with the Argentine. The goalkeeper was linked with a move last summer as well. Caballero’s role at Chelsea has merely been that of a second choice goalkeeper, and this position is not set to change even with a transfer to West Ham.
The Hammers signed former Arsenal goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski from Swansea after the Welsh club got relegated from the Premier League. Since signing for the Hammers, the Pole has been one of their outstanding performers as West Ham finished the season in 10th place. Pellegrini wants Caballero to provide back up to Fabianski for the coming season.
Moreover, current West Ham second choice keeper, Adrian is set to leave the club, and Caballero would permanently replace the Spaniard. Adrian has been at West Ham for the best part of six years since signing on a free transfer from Real Betis back in 2013. He racked up around 150 appearances during his spell, although in the last season managed only 5 starts in all competitions.
Caballero meanwhile did not have the best of seasons, playing only twice in the Premier League and 9 times in all competitions. However, Caballero kept clean sheets in both his league games, one of which got afforded to him following Arrizabalaga’s controversy in the Carabao Cup final.
Now 37-years-old, the Argentine is undoubtedly in the twilight of his career and would be open to either staying at Chelsea or joining West Ham if the opportunity arose. West Ham also have 20 -year-old, Academy graduate Nathan Trott, who is tipped to be a future No.1 goalkeeper at the club. Trott, however, is looked at as a prospect and could be sent out on loan for the upcoming season.
As for West Ham, they could make do with Caballero’s experience and add him to the roster alongside Fabianski. The Argentine may also provide competition for the Pole; however, Pellegrini would not have to worry about his goalkeeping situation for next season if he is to sign Caballero from Chelsea.
