Chelsea are reportedly set to face intense competition from top clubs across Europe in their pursuit of Chicago Fire prospect Gabriel Slonina.
According to reliable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea retain an interest in signing goalkeeping prodigy Gabriel Slonina from MLS outfit Chicago Fire. But the Blues are set to face competition from several top European clubs in pursuit of the teenager.
Slonina came through the Chicago Fire youth academy and made his first-team debut for the American outfit back in August last year at the age of 17 years and two months. Since then, he has been a regular presence between the sticks for Chicago Fire and has made 20 appearances, in which he has kept nine clean sheets.
Slonina has featured nine times in the MLS in the ongoing season, letting in just seven goals. The 17-year-old has been called up to the United States Men’s National Team but is yet to make his bow on the international stages.
Standing close to 6ft 4in, Slonina can be an imposing presence between the sticks and has made a solid impression in his fledgling career. The 17-year-old is now attracting interest from one of the biggest clubs in the form of Chelsea.
Chelsea had been close to signing Slonina earlier this year. But the move broke down after they were hit with sanctions by the UK Government due to Roman Abramovich’s ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Despite the move falling through, Chelsea are holding an interest in Slonina and are hoping to revive the transfer in the coming weeks. But, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Blues find themselves competing with several other top clubs from Europe who are also working on a deal to sign the 17-year-old from Chicago Fire.
Slonina signed a new contract with the MLS club last month, extending his stay at the Soldier Field until December 2023. But, it is expected that the Addison-born talent will be on the move this summer, and is close to deciding on his next club. Whether Chelsea can close the deal for the teenager or miss out on his signing remains to be seen.