Manchester United are reportedly considering making a move for Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier during the upcoming summer transfer window. According to reports, the competition for the 23-year-old’s signature is intensifying, with Chelsea also expressing strong interest.
This interest in Chevalier highlights Manchester United’s potential desire to strengthen their goalkeeping department. Despite spending a significant £47.2 million to acquire Andre Onana in 2023, the Cameroonian international has faced scrutiny at Old Trafford. Onana’s performances have been marked by errors, leading to questions about his long-term suitability as Manchester United’s number one. Therefore, a move for a younger, potentially more consistent goalkeeper like Chevalier could represent a strategic shift.
Manchester United Targets Lucas Chevalier to Bolster Goalkeeping Options
Here’s a breakdown of why Lucas Chevalier is attracting attention from top Premier League clubs:
- Rising Star: Chevalier has established himself as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in European football through his performances for Lille.
- Lille’s Number One: He has become a mainstay for Lille, progressing through their youth system to command the starting position.
- Modern Goalkeeping Style: At 6 ft 2, Chevalier possesses the physical attributes of a modern goalkeeper, combining shot-stopping prowess with composure on the ball.
- Distribution Skills: He is known for his ability to distribute the ball effectively, both with short passes to initiate attacks and longer kicks to switch play.
- International Recognition: While yet to earn a senior international cap for France, Chevalier has been recognized by national team coach Didier Deschamps with call-ups, indicating his potential at the highest level.
- Solid Performance Stats: This season, across all competitions, Chevalier has conceded 45 goals in 40 appearances and recorded 11 clean sheets for Lille, demonstrating his consistent presence.
Lille reportedly value Chevalier at around £34 million, a price tag that might appeal to clubs seeking a long-term goalkeeping solution. His current contract with the French club runs until 2027, which could prompt Lille to consider a sale this summer to maximize their return. Furthermore, Chevalier’s relatively low reported weekly wage of £20,000 could also be attractive to potential suitors in terms of overall squad expenditure.
Chelsea Enters the Fray for Chevalier’s Signature
Chelsea’s interest in Chevalier further complicates the transfer landscape. The London club also finds itself in a position where goalkeeping reinforcements may be necessary. Both Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen have had spells where they haven’t fully convinced as Chelsea’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. Additionally, Chelsea has a number of goalkeepers currently out on loan, suggesting a potential restructuring of their goalkeeping options is under consideration.
Chelsea’s reported interest indicates that the race for Lucas Chevalier’s signature could become a head-to-head battle with Manchester United. Both clubs, with their respective goalkeeping uncertainties, could see the young Frenchman as an ideal acquisition to strengthen their squads.
The pursuit of Jobe Bellingham by Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal also showcases the intense competition among these Premier League giants for young, promising talents. Bellingham, a versatile midfielder for Sunderland, is reportedly a priority target for Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea side, highlighting the broader summer recruitment strategies of these clubs.
Would Lucas Chevalier be a shrewd signing for either Manchester United or Chelsea? Share your thoughts in the comments below!