Chelsea closing in on €20m deal to sign teenage goalkeeper this summer - Reports

According to reports, Chelsea are nearing an agreement with Belgian outfit Genk to sign teenage goalkeeper Mike Penders. The Blues are reportedly preparing a €20 million package to secure his services.

The Blues have been active in the transfer market this summer as Todd Boehly continues to reinforce Enzo Maresca's squad in preparation for the 2024/25 campaign. Chelsea have already made six signings officially so far, spending just under €90 million.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Omari Kellyman, Renato Veiga, Caleb Wiley, Marc Guiu, and Tosin Adarabioyo have signed for the Blues. Chelsea have secured the signatures of South American talents Kendry Paez and Estevao Willian as well, both of whom are set to join next summer.

Meanwhile, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims that the west Londoners have signed Villarreal goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen for a reported €24.5 million fee, with an official announcement pending.

However, the Blues seem far from finished with their transfer business as they are in for another shot-stopper this summer. Romano reported on Monday (29 July) that the club's hierarchy were deliberating a potential move for Genk's Mike Penders.

The journalist claimed that an agreement hadn't been reached yet amidst the negotiations. He also stated that the move for Penders would not have an effect on Chelsea's deal with Jorgensen.

According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri (via @CFCPys on X), the Blues are now closing in on a €20 million deal to secure 18-year-old Penders' signature.

"He is top, top level" - Chelsea summer signing heaps praise on Enzo Maresca

Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has lavished praise on Enzo Maresca. The player has backed the Blues to achieve success in a short time-span under Maresca's management.

The Blues signed Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City this summer for a reported £30 million fee. The English midfielder was in impressive form last term and won the Championship with Maresca, who was in charge of the Foxes until his switch to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Dewsbury-Hall has offered a glowing assessment of Maresca and believes the Blues are destined for great things during his tenure. He said:

"I genuinely think in a short space of time we can be pushing for minimum top four - but more than that. He may be unknown for a lot of people, but he is top, top level. He will surprise a lot of people."

"A couple of the lads have had a laugh and joke [about me being the teacher's pet], I don't mind - it's all fun and games. You are getting lads coming up to me and asking questions. I am happy to let them know what my opinions and experiences are. They will gather their own opinions week by week."