In a significant development, Chelsea Football Club has struck an agreement with the New England Revolution for the acquisition of highly-rated goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic. Sources indicate that the Premier League giants have secured the services of the 23-year-old Serbian shot-stopper for a substantial fee.
The agreed transfer fee stands at a noteworthy €16 million (£13.6 million, $17.4 million), with an additional €2 million slated for add-ons. Petrovic’s imminent move to Chelsea is now on the horizon, pending the completion of a medical examination and formal contract signing. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet.
Djordje Petrovic, hailed as the standout goalkeeper in Major League Soccer (MLS), has garnered widespread recognition for his exceptional skills between the posts. His impending transfer marks an important milestone in his promising career.
Chelsea’s pursuit of Petrovic began with the initiation of talks with the New England Revolution, eventually culminating in a formal bid for the talented goalkeeper. It’s worth noting that previous offers from FC Nantes and Nottingham Forest had been rebuffed by New England in late July. However, Petrovic’s desire for the transfer and the record-breaking fee ultimately swayed the decision in favor of Chelsea.
While New England Revolution aimed to retain their star goalkeeper in their quest for a championship, the allure of Chelsea, combined with the substantial financial offer, proved to be decisive factors in sealing the deal. As the MLS summer transfer window has closed, Petrovic’s departure ushers in the signing of free agent and Czech Republic international goalkeeper Tomas Vaclik as his replacement.
Tomas Vaclik, 34, brings a wealth of experience to the New England Revolution, having previously featured for Huddersfield in the English leagues, as well as FC Basel and Sevilla, among other clubs. He also boasts 54 caps for the Czech Republic national team.
Chelsea’s head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, alluded to the ongoing pursuit of another goalkeeper, underscoring the club’s commitment to exploring all available options in the market.
Djordje Petrovic’s journey in New England has been remarkable. Since joining the team in 2022, he has made 48 appearances and swiftly established himself as a formidable presence in goal. Despite playing only 21 out of 34 matches last season, he was named the second-best goalkeeper in MLS and earned a spot in the 2023 MLS All-Star team.
With two caps for the Serbian national team, Petrovic’s career trajectory continues to ascend. Before his time in New England, he made his breakthrough with Serbian side FK Cukaricki.
This impending transfer sets a new MLS record for the most expensive goalkeeper, eclipsing Chelsea’s previous acquisition of Gaga Slonina from the Chicago Fire earlier this year. Notably, it ranks among the highest outbound transfers in MLS history, with Miguel Almiron’s $29 million move from Atlanta to Newcastle still holding the record, and Jhon Duran’s $18 million transfer to Aston Villa this winter also featuring prominently in the top five. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.
