Chelsea eye surprise deal for Fulham goalkeeper this summer as Petr Cech backup.
Chelsea are believed to be lining up a surprise move for Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, whose contract expires on June 30th 2013.
The Australia international, whose 105 appearances for his country make him the most capped player in Socceroos history, has dropped down the pecking order at Craven Cottage, and looks set to depart the West London club.
Martin Jol has already bought his replacement, with AS Roma star Maarten Stekelenburg slotting in between the posts after agreeing a four year deal, and Schwarzer’s future is now very much up in the air while he waits for offers.
Schwarzer was philosophical when asked by Sky Sports about Stekelenburg’s arrival.
“It’s no great surprise and I’ll be looking for another club,” said the 40 year-old, who also dismissed the idea of returning to his home country in the A-League.
“Not at this stage, no,” continued Schwarzer.
“My family’s settled and the kids are in school and I wouldn’t [move] my family anyway.”
A move across West London would be highly convenient for Schwarzer then, and it just so happens that Chelsea are in somewhat of a goalkeeper quandary.
The Blues have just announced the release of both Hilario and Ross Turnbull, and with Thibaut Courtois likely to head back to Atletico de Madrid on loan next season, a reliable backup custodian is required at Stamford Bridge as Petr Cech is the only remaining senior goalkeeper.
Schwarzer still has hopes of appearing in the UEFA Champions League at this late stage of his football career, and though he would be clear reserve option for Chelsea, the opportunity may be too good to turn down.
“There are always regrets you don’t get the chance to play in the Champions League,” said Schwarzer to the London Evening Standard last month.
“But you never say never. I’ve always learnt that in football.
“You never say that it’s never going to happen because you just don’t ever know.”
Few would have predicted Mark Schwarzer to be Jose Mourinho’s first signing for Chelsea, but it would be a low risk deal with potentially great reward for all parties.
