Most Chelsea fans aren’t exactly relishing the prospect of another full season with Robert Sanchez between the sticks at Stamford Bridge. The former Brighton goalkeeper has made numerous errors during his Chelsea career so far, leading the club’s hierarchy to nearly complete a deal for AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan in the summer.
In the end, though, despite agreeing personal terms with the club, a move for one of the world’s top shot-stoppers failed to materialise. However, according to recent reports, the influential figure at Milan is expected to leave the San Siro on a free transfer when his current deal expires in June 2026, with the Blues potentially ready to pounce.
While the 30-year-old goalkeeper could be the answer for Chelsea, other clubs could easily beat the Blues to his signature. One thing is certain: if Enzo Maresca’s side are to be confidently backed for major honours by football tipsters and Chelsea fans on YouTube, a more reliable goalkeeper is required, be it in January or at the end of the season. With that in mind, should Mike Maignan move elsewhere, there are some viable alternatives.
Emiliano Martinez Could Be an Option
A player who looks destined to leave Aston Villa, Emiliano Martínez is a proven Premier League goalkeeper whom Manchester United were linked with before completing a deal for Senne Lammens. With Martinez seemingly eager to challenge for major trophies and build on his 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Copa America triumphs with Argentina, Chelsea could emerge as an option in January.
Bart Verbruggen is One of Brighton’s Prized Assets
At just 23 and already a full Belgium international, Bart Verbruggen has been a key factor in Brighton’s strong start to the season. Regularly impressing for the Seagulls since joining from Anderlecht in 2023, Verbruggen appears to have far greater potential than Robert Sanchez ever showed. Signed for his outstanding shot-stopping ability and distribution, Chelsea could be tempted to test Brighton’s resolve with a big bid for Verbruggen in the future.
Anatoliy Trubin has Impressed for Benfica
It’s no secret that Clearlake Capital’s approach to transfers is to sign young, hungry players with sell-on potential. Anatoliy Trubin could therefore be an ideal fit. The Ukrainian kept 19 clean sheets in all competitions in his debut season with Benfica, with his shot-stopping standing out. The 24-year-old is also 6-foot-6, he appears to have the mentality required to adapt to Premier League football, and he’s a goalkeeper with a high ceiling.
✨ Anatoliy Trubin appreciation tweet 🧤#SLBFCB • #FIFACWC • #TakeItToTheWorld pic.twitter.com/xmlOUw5Wmk
— SL Benfica (@SLBenfica) June 24, 2025
Giorgi Mamardashvili Might Struggle for Playing Time at Liverpool
During his time in Spain with Valencia, Giorgi Mamardashvili established himself as one of La Liga’s finest goalkeepers. In the end, Liverpool signed the Georgian in a deal reportedly worth £25 million plus £4 million in add-ons. However, with Alisson Becker ahead of him and game time potentially limited, the 6-foot-6 stopper could grow frustrated at Anfield. Comfortable with the ball at his feet and still at a good age, Mamardashvili could emerge as a future option for Chelsea.