Manuel neuer is the first-choice between the sticks for Bayern Munich and Germany (Getty Images)
As per the German outlet Bild (h/t The Sun), Chelsea are keen on bringing in Bayern Munich star Manuel Neuer to England in the summer.
Neuer, 34, came through the ranks of Schalke’s youth system before joining Bayern Munich in the summer of 2011. Since his arrival at Allianz Arena, he has been the undisputed first-choice shot-stopper. He established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world and has won everything at the club level and international level.
The German shot-stopper has been named as the world’s best goalkeeper four times in his career, equal with Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon. He has been between the sticks for Bayern Munich for a long time and has made over 350 appearances for the Bavarians.
Meanwhile, Frank Lampard has done a decent job in his first season as the Blues boss. But he still needs to spend in the transfer market. He failed to sign players in January and that has slightly impacted the team.
One of the key reasons for the Blues inconsistency is their unstable nature in defending and the lack of form from their goalkeepers. Kepa Arrizabalaga, who made a move from Athletic Bilbao, was at his best last season but has not been up to the mark under the new boss.
He has fallen out of favour in the last few games and Willy Caballero was given the nod. The Argentine has also not been in good form since the World Cup and is already 38, while his contract is also coming to an end in the summer. Therefore, a new goalkeeper should be prioritized by the manager.
However, going for Bayern Munich and German star Manuel Neuer would make no sense for the English outfit which needs a young goalkeeper in its ranks.
Neuer might be one of the best goalkeepers in the world but he is already 34 and may not be a long-term prospect for the Blues. He is capable of playing for some more years but Chelsea need a shot-stopper who is capable of being successful for a long time.
The German international has already slowed down due to his age and may not be effective in the Premier League due to its rough and tough nature.
Chelsea are in dire need of a top-class goalkeeper in their ranks. And going for a young and energetic goalkeeper in the summer would be the right decision instead of some who is already beyond his best years.
Therefore, they should keep their eyes off Neuer and instead look for English keepers within the country.