Djordje Petrovic Nears Surprise Premier League Switch

Djordje Petrovic looks set to swap Chelsea’s bench for a starring Premier League role this summer, with the Blues ready to sanction a permanent sale after his eye-catching loan spell at Strasbourg.

Djordje Petrovic impresses in Ligue 1 audition

The Serbian goalkeeper joined the French sister club in January and quickly cemented himself as Patrick Vieira’s No. 1, keeping eight clean sheets in 17 Ligue 1 outings. His razor-sharp reflexes and calm distribution were instrumental in Strasbourg pulling clear of the relegation scrap, and that uptick has not gone unnoticed in England.

Why Chelsea are willing to cash in

Mauricio Pochettino already counts on Robert Sánchez and the returning Kepa Arrizabalaga, while teenage prodigy Gabriel Slonina is earmarked for the future. With Financial Fair Play pressures mounting, off-loading Petrovic—signed from New England Revolution for £12 m last August—represents a swift profit that can be reinvested elsewhere in the squad.

Sunderland lead the chase

GOAL understands newly promoted Sunderland have opened talks over a deal worth about £18 m, viewing the 24-year-old as a ready-made No. 1 for their top-flight return. Other mid-table clubs, including Crystal Palace and Brentford, are monitoring developments, but the Black Cats’ ability to guarantee regular minutes could prove decisive.

What the move means for Petrovic

After just one senior appearance for Chelsea—a brief cameo at December’s FIFA Club World Cup—Petrovic craves consistent Premier League action to strengthen his Serbia claims ahead of Euro 2024. A switch to Wearside would hand him that platform while allowing Chelsea to balance the books.

Opinion: Petrovic’s shot-stopping exploits in France showed he is more than a backup. Chelsea’s depth means they can afford to sell, but if Sunderland land him for under £20 m, it could be one of the bargains of the window.