Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Alphonse Areola wanted to join Chelsea this summer, according to Blues goalkeeping coach Christophe Lollichon.
Speaking to French newspaper Le Figaro, as cited on Inside Futbol, Lollichon confirms that he spoke to the player about a potential move to Stamford Bridge over the summer.
We had a lot of discussions this summer, in a very reasoned way. He wanted to come here, but the final decision was not my responsibility.
Areola was part of the World Cup-winning squad with France over the summer but is now facing a battle to be Paris Saint-Germain’s number one this season following the arrival of Gianluigi Buffon.
The Blues were in the market for a new goalkeeper when it became clear that Thibaut Courtois would be moving on.
A host of players were linked with a move to London, including Areola, Sergio Rico and Brazilian goalkeeper Neto.
However, it was Athletic Bilbao’s Kepa that Chelsea signed, with the Spaniard joining for a world-record fee.
