Chelsea and Newcaatle United Have Joined the Race to Sign 27-year-old Bundesliga Star – Report | OneFootball

Gregor Kobel Poised for Summer Move: Chelsea and Newcastle Circle

Credit to FootMercato for reporting the latest on Borussia Dortmund’s Swiss shot-stopper Gregor Kobel, who appears to be edging closer to a high-profile move away from Germany. According to their sources, “Gregor Kobel could leave this summer”, with Chelsea and Newcastle showing the strongest interest. The 27-year-old goalkeeper has been a pillar of strength for BVB over the past four seasons, often hailed as one of the Bundesliga’s standout performers.

Chelsea and Newcastle Set to Battle for Kobel

Both Premier League giants have reportedly initiated contacts with Kobel’s representatives, with “discussions in London in the coming days” expected to intensify. Chelsea, under new manager Enzo Maresca, are keen to reinforce their goalkeeping department ahead of a crucial rebuild. Meanwhile, Newcastle continue their ambitious recruitment drive to solidify their defence for domestic and European competition.

Photo: IMAGO

It is telling that Borussia Dortmund had already prepared for this scenario. As FootMercato noted, the German side “had anticipated the move by recruiting Diant Ramaj from Ajax Amsterdam this winter”. Such pre-emptive action indicates that Dortmund are resigned to losing their No.1 this summer.

Kobel’s Rise and This Season’s Form

Gregor Kobel’s journey with Dortmund has been impressive. He played a critical role last season in helping BVB reach the Champions League final — a remarkable feat that added considerable stock to his reputation. While this campaign has seen slightly less dazzling form, FootMercato highlights that he has remained “author of good performances in recent weeks”. This consistency, particularly in high-pressure moments, is exactly what top English clubs crave.

At 27, Kobel is entering his prime years as a goalkeeper. His blend of athleticism, composure under pressure, and distribution skills make him an ideal candidate for a Premier League move.

What This Means for Dortmund and the Transfer Market

Should Kobel depart, Dortmund would turn fully to Diant Ramaj, their recent signing from Ajax. Although talented, Ramaj lacks the big-game experience that Kobel has developed. Dortmund’s transition phase could be rocky without their established No.1, especially as they look to maintain their competitiveness domestically and in Europe.

Photo IMAGO

For Chelsea and Newcastle, securing Kobel would represent a major coup. In an era where top-class goalkeepers are increasingly vital, capturing a proven performer like Kobel would immediately elevate either side’s defensive reliability.

London Calling: Chelsea’s Position Strengthened

FootMercato’s report suggests that London will be the base of key discussions, subtly indicating Chelsea may have the upper hand in the race. The allure of Premier League football, combined with Chelsea’s ambitious project under Enzo Maresca, could tip the scales in their favour.

There is a palpable sense that Chelsea’s recruitment team is determined to address critical gaps in the squad early this summer. A new, world-class goalkeeper has been on the shopping list for some time, and Gregor Kobel fits the bill perfectly.

“Contacts have already been initiated with its representative, who will continue discussions in London in the coming days,” FootMercato detailed, highlighting just how imminent developments might be.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a hopeful Chelsea supporter’s perspective, this is exactly the type of transfer news we wanted to hear heading into the summer window. Gregor Kobel isn’t just a solid shot-stopper — he’s a potential game-changer for a club trying to return to the top.

With Enzo Maresca ushering in a new era at Stamford Bridge, there’s a massive need for leadership and consistency at the back. Our current goalkeeping situation, while stable, lacks that commanding presence needed to truly challenge for titles. Kobel, at 27, offers the perfect mix of experience and hunger.

The fact that “contacts have already been initiated” and further talks are set for London suggests that Chelsea are moving quickly and decisively — something we fans have been crying out for after several frustrating transfer windows.

If Chelsea can beat Newcastle to his signature, it would signal a real statement of intent from Maresca and the new-look recruitment team. It’s also worth noting that Dortmund “anticipated the move” — proof that they know they are about to lose a real star. That’s the kind of quality we need.

Of course, nothing is final until the player signs, but there’s real reason for optimism. Adding Kobel could be the foundation for rebuilding the kind of fearsome defence that helped Chelsea to their greatest glories. Fingers crossed the board gets this one over the line.