Gregor Kobel linked with £60m move to Chelsea or Newcastle as Dortmund faces Champions League struggles

‎Gregor Kobel, one of the Bundesliga’s standout goalkeepers, is reportedly a target for two Premier League giants, Chelsea and Newcastle United, as both clubs look to strengthen their goalkeeping options. With his current club, Borussia Dortmund, struggling to secure a spot in next season's Champions League, Kobel's future is in flux.

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‎'Gregor Kobel.'

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‎According to a report from Foot Mercato, both Chelsea and Newcastle have expressed strong interest in the 27-year-old Swiss international. Kobel, whose contract with Dortmund runs until 2028, is said to be keen on leaving Signal Iduna Park if the team fails to secure a Champions League berth for the upcoming season.

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‎Chelsea’s Pursuit of a New Keeper

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‎Chelsea, in particular, are looking for a new goalkeeper after expressing dissatisfaction with their current first-choice, Robert Sanchez. Reports suggest that the Blues are willing to pay a hefty €70 million (£60 million) to secure Kobel’s services. This move would see Kobel replace Sanchez, whose performances have been under scrutiny.

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‎Kobel’s impressive shot-stopping ability and commanding presence between the posts have made him one of the most sought-after goalkeepers in Europe. With Chelsea undergoing a rebuilding phase, having a top-tier keeper like Kobel could be a crucial piece of their long-term plans.

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‎Newcastle United’s Transfer Plans

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‎Meanwhile, Newcastle United is also monitoring Kobel’s situation closely. With the Magpies looking to bolster their squad, a move for a high-caliber goalkeeper like Kobel could be a natural next step. There are indications that Newcastle may be open to selling their current first-choice goalkeeper, Nick Pope, who has just one year remaining on his contract. Pope was linked with a move to Championship side Leeds United earlier in the season, making his future at St. James' Park uncertain.

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‎The financial backing of both clubs and their ambition to compete at the highest level in European football make them strong contenders in the race to sign Kobel.

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‎Dortmund’s Struggles and Potential Departure

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‎Dortmund currently sits seventh in the Bundesliga, four points behind the Champions League spots. With only four matches remaining in the season, their qualification hopes are hanging by a thread. If Dortmund fails to secure a top-four finish, it is likely that Kobel will seek greener pastures, with both Chelsea and Newcastle ready to take advantage of the situation.

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‎While Kobel has been a reliable presence for Dortmund, consistently delivering excellent performances, his desire to play in the Champions League may ultimately drive his decision. A failure to qualify for Europe’s premier club competition could significantly impact the club's ability to retain key players like Kobel.

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‎What Lies Ahead for Gregor Kobel?

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‎Next week, Kobel’s agent is set to travel to London to meet with representatives from Chelsea and Newcastle, as both clubs look to firm up their interest and begin negotiations. Kobel’s decision will likely depend on Dortmund’s Champions League fate, but for now, the Swiss goalkeeper’s future remains uncertain.

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‎As the transfer window looms, expect to hear more developments regarding Kobel's potential move to the Premier League. With clubs like Chelsea and Newcastle in the mix, the summer transfer market promises to be an exciting one for the talented goalkeeper.