Chelsea have discussed terms with the France goalkeeper Steve Mandanda over a transfer that could speed Asmir Begovic’s departure from Stamford Bridge.
Mandanda, who is Hugo Lloris’s understudy at Euro 2016, is set to leave Marseille when his contract ends this month after nine years at the Stade Vélodrome and has expressed an interest in pursuing his career in the Premier League.
The 31-year-old, who once had an unsuccessful trial with Aston Villa, has been voted the best goalkeeper in Ligue 1 four times and has 22 caps, with this summer’s tournament his fifth major finals with France. He has previously been monitored by Everton, while at least one Ligue 1 club have offered him terms.
“Abroad would be something good at 31,” he said last month after intimating his involvement in the French Cup final, which Marseille lost 4-2 to Paris Saint-Germain, would be his last appearance for the club. “It would be a nice adventure on both a sporting and a personal level. The two leagues that interest me most are the Premier League and La Liga.”
Chelsea are willing to let Begovic, an £8m addition from Stoke City a year ago on a four-year contract, leave if they secure an experienced goalkeeper to act as the back-up to Thibaut Courtois. The Bosnian grew frustrated last season at a lack of opportunities and lost his place as the club’s FA Cup goalkeeper under Guus Hiddink, despite performing capably when Courtois was absent through injury and suspension. He is understood to be keen to remain in the London area.
Crystal Palace, who have also been alerted to Mandanda’s availability, have expressed an interest in securing Begovic’s services but would have to explore whether the deal would be cost effective.
The Newcastle United winger Andros Townsend has indicated he would be reluctant to move to Selhurst Park despite Palace’s eagerness to trigger a £10.5m release clause in his contract. Townsend will consider his options and could still be at the Championship club next season.
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