According to the Mirror, Manchester United and Chelsea are engaged in negotiations to acquire goalkeeper Gregor Kobel from Borussia Dortmund this summer.

Erik ten Hag is reportedly looking to acquire a long-term replacement for the 32-year-old David de Gea despite the fact that the goalkeeper has been one of the Red Devils’ most dependable performers thus far this season. The Dutchman hopes to sign a new goalkeeper who is a top shot-blocker as well as being at ease with the game and able to play out from the back.

Diogo Costa and David Raya are two players who have been mentioned in connection with a move to Old Trafford prior to the summer transfer season. Kobel, however, seems to be on the record-setting Premier League winners’ radar as well.

Man Utd are in talks with De Gea about a new contract, the Mirror reported, but the Red Devils are also interested in signing Kobel to compete with the Spaniard for a starting position. De Gea’s current deal expires at the conclusion of this season.

According to the report, if Dortmund is forced to sell this summer, Kobel’s release clause could be at least £35 million, which would allow United to acquire the 25-year-old for a fair price. Kobel still has more than three years remaining on his current contract.

Battle

Kobel won’t be simple for Ten Hag’s team to acquire, according to Mirror, as Chelsea are also planning a move for him this summer.

It has been reported that Chelsea is seeking to replace Edouard Mendy with a new goalkeeper. The Senegal international allegedly wants to leave Stamford Bridge at the conclusion of this campaign after struggling to secure a spot in the starting lineup after Graham Potter was appointed as the team’s new manager.

In 18 Bundesliga appearances this season, Kobel has had a standout season at Signal Iduna Park, keeping eight clean sheets while recording an astounding 77% save percentage per game.

The German, who is 6 feet 3 inches tall, is adept at playing out from the back, a fantastic shot-blocker, an expert at saving penalties, and he can also fill the position of sweeper-keeper. Therefore, if Chelsea or Manchester United can work out a deal, he would be a fantastic addition.