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New Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic has explained the impact that head coach Mauricio Pochettino had on his move to the club this summer.
The Blues confirmed a deal for the 23-year-old from New England Revolution on Saturday night, adding further depth to their shot-stopping ranks. football.london understands that the transfer cost £12.5million in guaranteed fees, with £1.5million in add-ons and on a seven-year contract with the option of an extra year.
It answers Pochettino's call to add another goalkeeper to his squad before the transfer window closes in the next week, following a host of changes. Edouard Mendy left the club for the Saudi Pro League early in the summer, while Kepa Arrizabalaga joined Real Madrid on loan following Thibaut Courtois' long-term injury.
Robert Sanchez was recruited from Brighton in a deal worth up to £25million, with the Spaniard starting all of the games so far this season. However, with the bench occupied with academy players, Pochettino made a request to add another goalkeeper option in the market.
With Petrovic now signed, it should allow for the Blues to move their focus elsewhere in the market, safe in the knowledge that their shot-stopping ranks are secure. The youngster has spoken to the official club website about his move and how the manager has impacted his decision.
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"I met with the coaching staff at the hotel before the game against Luton and it was very nice to speak with them," Petrovic said on his move. "They told me everything that I wanted to hear, they welcomed me into the club and they told me that I will have the opportunity to grow and achieve great things with them here. That was exactly what I wanted to hear and it seems a great place to be."
It remains to be seen how the move will pan out for Petrovic and Chelsea, however it should see them set when it comes to goalkeepers for the next season at the very least.
