Mendy Move To Stamford Bridge Nearing Completion

Frank Lampard may be closer as ever to acquiring a target player with reports that Edouard Mendy is close to finalizing a deal to move to Stamford Bridge. Despite having Kepa Arrizabalaga and Willy Caballero, the Blues are on the prowl for another goalkeeper with the 28-year-old from Stade Rennais FC at the top of the list.

According to Mendy’s agent, Djily Dieng , a breakthrough has occurred. A deal for Mendy is practically a done deal and the only thing that is remaining is the formalization, Dieng told Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.

“The deal with Chelsea is almost done. Only the formalization is remaining,” Dieng said. “It could be completed even in the next hours.”

The recent development may come a bit of a surprise considering it was previously mentioned that Rennes is not keen on dealing away Mendy. The Blues have made several bids for the Senegalese goalkeeper but SRFC turned them down.

However, it was reported in a previous post that Chelsea will be submitting an improved offer for Mendy. The Blues are willing to spend up to $33 million for Mendy, a deal that includes add-ons. The previous bid submitted by Chelsea was $24 million.

The interest in Mendy is understandable. He is coming off a good season, helping Rennes qualify for the Champions League for the first time. They finished third at Ligue 1 but the feat is seen as an accomplishment.

Lampard is far from impressed with Kepa and Caballero though he did defend the former recently. The Spanish goalie drew criticism when he conceded a goal to Brighton. Though the Blues won, some felt Kepa could have done better.

Lampard did laud Kepa for his efforts, alleging he is happy with his goalkeeper. Unfortunately, Gary Neville is not buying the praise and says that such is only normal for coaches who need to back up their players.

"He conceded so many goals from outside the box last season, he's conceded another one tonight and it will cost you. If you don't have a top goalkeeper, you won't win that league,” Neville said.

If Mendy does come on board, it raises questions about the future of Kepa and Caballero. Who will be the odd man out? The Blues are unlikely to keep three keepers. Kepa has been singled out as the possible casualty with the possibility of being loaned out. The 25-year-old carries a hefty contract – something Chelsea will want to get rid of.