Chelsea Transfer News: Blues eye shock move for Liverpool target, To trigger £89 million release clause of La Liga Superstar and more - August 7, 2018

Chelsea target Oblak and Kepa

Oblak conceded just 22 goals in La Liga last campaign

With Thibaut Courtois asserting that he desires to leave Chelsea this month, the Blues have stepped up the search for their next number 1. Atletico Madrid's Jan Oblak and Athletic Bilbao shot-stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga along with Jack Butland of Stoke City are the three shortlisted goalkeepers.

According to the Mirror, Chelsea are prepared to activate the £89 million release clause of Oblak with Courtois' exit from Stamford Bridge edging closer. The Slovenian has cemented his claim as one of the best goalkeepers in the world in recent seasons and is regarded as the ideal replacement.

Similarly, the Blues are ready to trigger Kepa's €80 million release clause, another backup option viewed by Maurizio Sarri. The Italian was keen on recruiting the Athletic keeper during his stint as Napoli manager last season and could force a deal for Arrizabalaga this time around.

Butland is third in line to replace Courtois and is available at the lowest fee of the three goalkeepers. Talks have begun between both parties and Stoke are willing to sell the Englishman for £30 million with add-ons.