Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel is reportedly likelier to join Newcastle United instead of Chelsea in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Football Insider, Chelsea and Newcastle United are interested in Borussia Dortmund shot-stopper Gregor Kobel. The two Premier League clubs are eager to bolster their first-team squads by signing a goalkeeper ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The latest report has boosted Newcastle United’s prospects while presenting bad news for Chelsea, as the Zurich native is “more likely to move to Newcastle United than he is to Chelsea” due to the West London club’s desire to hand an opportunity to Mike Penders. So, with Newcastle United looking for a new first-choice goalkeeper, Kobel is closer to moving to St. James’ Park.
How has Gregor Kobel fared at Borussia Dortmund?
Gregor Kobel has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the Bundesliga since joining Borussia Dortmund from VfB Stuttgart in July 2021. Born in Zurich, the 28-year-old stopper has made significant progress in the last four and a half years, becoming a mainstay between the sticks for the Black and Yellows.
The 28-year-old has made over 200 appearances for Borussia Dortmund thus far while keeping 70 clean sheets and conceding 270 goals. Meanwhile, Kobel’s progress has stimulated the interest of several high-profile clubs. A move to the Premier League may be on the cards for the Swiss international, with Chelsea and Newcastle United among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Premier League move on the horizon?
Gregor Kobel has been on Newcastle United’s radar for a long time. The continued interest is understandable, as Nick Pope is on the wrong side of 30. Additionally, the experienced English shot-stopper has been error-prone in the 2025/26 season, showing signs of regression after a few injury-riddled campaigns. With recent reports suggesting Aaron Ramsdale may not complete a permanent move to Newcastle United, they must look elsewhere for a first-choice stopper.
As for Chelsea, the Blues are scouring the market for a goalkeeper, as Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen have been dreadful between the sticks, producing many errors over the course of the ongoing campaign. However, with Mike Penders likely to receive an opportunity to impress, a new goalkeeper will not become an undisputed first-choice starter for Chelsea.
That has left Newcastle United in an advantageous position in the battle for Kobel’s signature. However, a summer move for the Borussia Dortmund mainstay will not be straightforward, as the Bundesliga giants will demand a “huge fee” to sell the 28-year-old Swiss international. The Black and Yellows’ stance is understandable, as Kobel is at the peak of his powers, while his contract has over two years to expire.