Chelsea Transfer Rumor: Blues On Course For Talented Dutch Goal Keeper?

If rumors are to be believed, London-based Premier League heavyweight Chelsea are monitoring Premiership rivals Newcastle United's Dutch goal keeper Tim Krul and will be looking to make a move for the player as soon as the transfer window re-surfaces in the summer.

Chelsea, reportedly, are prepared to replace their long-time standing goal keeper Czech international Petr Cech and feel that Krul is best suited for the position now. The Dutchman has been in fine form all through the season and has been instrumental in Newcastle's massive push to the top six in the league table this season. He gained further recognition in December when he saved Frank Lampard's penalty.

It is believed that Krul will cost Chelsea somewhere around the $23.75 million (£15 million) area and should he successfully join Chelsea in the summer, he will take over as the number one goal keeper for the Blues from Petr Cech. He will also boast a contract that will ensure him $142,523. 71 (£90,000)-a-week pay.

It is being said that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has agreed to finance the Krul deal despite Chelsea not having a permanent manager installed as of now. However, a few fans also believe that Newcastle will not stand in Krul's way if they receive a competitive fee.

But Chelsea will know that the deal may not be easy as the player has attracted attention from Tottenham, the Blues' fellow Premiership rivals from London. The Spurs have also been linked to French Ligue 1 side Lyon's Hugo Lloris, according to a Mirror Football report.

Krul, who is also known as Bakkers Handen in his home town which roughly translates to Bakers hands, due to how safe his hands are in goal, has made as many as 71 appearances for the St James' Park-based side.