Man Utd and Chelsea in Gregor Kobel transfer fight with Borussia Dortmund keeper seen as David De Gea replacement
Manchester United and Chelsea are locked in a transfer battle for Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, with the shot-stopper being seen as a potential replacement for David De Gea.
Kobel, 21, has emerged as one of the most highly-rated young keepers in Europe this season, having played an integral role in Dortmund's push for a top-four finish in the Bundesliga.
The German international has caught the attention of both United and Chelsea, who are both looking for a long-term replacement for De Gea, who has come in for criticism for his performances in recent weeks.
The Spaniard has been a loyal servant for United since he joined from Atletico Madrid in 2011, but his form has dipped in recent months, leading to speculation that the Red Devils could bring in a new face between the sticks.
Chelsea, too, are in the market for a new goalkeeper, with their current No.1 Kepa Arrizabalaga having been consistently underwhelming since his club-record move from Athletic Bilbao.
Kobel has been earmarked as a possible successor for both clubs, with Dortmund reportedly willing to let him go for a fee in the region of £25 million.
The young keeper has already made 49 appearances for Dortmund's first team and is even a part of the German national side's set-up.
It remains to be seen which of United or Chelsea will be able to secure the signature of the highly-rated keeper, but it looks increasingly likely that one of the Premier League giants will be his next destination.
