As Chelsea continue to reshape their squad ahead of the new season, one of the most pressing items on the agenda is clear: finding a commanding, world-class goalkeeper to anchor the team’s rebuild.

In a surprising twist, the Blues have now turned their attention to Barcelona’s Marc-André ter Stegen — a name that adds both intrigue and ambition to their transfer strategy.

Chelsea’s initial efforts centered around AC Milan’s Mike Maignan, whose performances in Serie A and for France have made him one of Europe’s most coveted shot-stoppers. But with that pursuit stalling, the club’s recruitment team is now exploring alternatives — and few come with a CV as decorated and dependable as Ter Stegen’s.

The German international has been a cornerstone at Barcelona since joining in 2014, known for his razor-sharp reflexes, ice-cold composure, and arguably some of the best distribution among modern keepers. For a Chelsea side that wants to play out from the back and impose control, Ter Stegen ticks every tactical box.

Barcelona’s recent acquisition of Joan García from Espanyol signals a shift in their long-term planning, which has made the Catalan club open to a sale.

Reports suggest Chelsea have already made initial contact with Barça to test the waters. Crucially, Ter Stegen is being taken seriously by the recruitment team at Cobham. Whether that leads to a formal bid depends on how negotiations progress, but interest is real — and growing.

Chelsea aren’t alone in this chase. Manchester United are believed to have conducted preliminary checks on Ter Stegen as well, eyeing him as a potential solution to their own uncertainties between the sticks. Should they decide to act, it could spark a high-stakes Premier League tug-of-war for one of Europe’s most consistent performers over the years.