Inter Milan have ruled out the sale of goalkeeper Andre Onana amid interest from Chelsea in a move for the Cameroonian shot-stopper.
The goalkeeper arrived at the club on a free transfer just 12 months ago after having been banned from football during his time at Ajax for testing positive for a banned substance, and he has quickly made himself one of the first names on the teamsheet.
Displacing Samir Handanovic for Simone Inzaghi’s side, Onana has kept 8 clean sheets in the Italian top flight, conceding just 19 times in 22 outings.
Such form has reportedly caught the eye of Chelsea, who are keen to upgrade their own options in goal. Kepa Arrizabalaga has replaced Edouard Mendy in recent months, but there is a feeling that both could depart this summer should offers come in, with neither shot-stopper inspiring confidence in what has been an underwhelming campaign for the Blues.
Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga during the Premier League match at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth. Picture date: Saturday May 6, 2023. 2R037Y3 Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga during the Premier League match at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth. Picture date: Saturday May 6, 2023. (Alamy Stock Photo)
However, Onana will not be going anywhere, the Italian giants confirmed.
“Onana leaving for €40m? I’d rule this out, honestly. We think he will stay”, Inter CEO Marotta explained.
Chelsea’s scattergun approach to transfers over the past 12 months is set to become more coherent this summer, with key areas identified as needing to strengthen. Goalkeeper is one of those, along with central midfield and striker as they expect to spend significantly once more at the end of the season under Todd Boehly.
They will be boosted by the arrivals of both RB Leipzig attacker Christopher Nkunku and Lyon defender Malo Gusto, who they have already agreed deals for.