John Obi Mikel has called on Chelsea to upgrade their goalkeeping options by signing Manchester City's James Trafford, while also criticising current number one Robert Sanchez. The former Blues midfielder made his case on The Obi One Podcast, arguing that Sanchez is not the answer for a club aiming to compete for trophies.
Sanchez under fire after error-strewn spell
Sanchez has faced persistent criticism during his three years at Stamford Bridge, with many supporters and pundits calling for his replacement. Mikel echoed those sentiments, saying: 'I've said it so many times that Sanchez is not that guy. He is not that guy that will win us trophies.'
The ex-Chelsea midfielder added: 'He's not reliable, he's not consistent, and for us to be able to go from where we are right now to try and build a winning team, we need consistency.'
Trafford identified as ideal target
Mikel believes Trafford, who struggled for game time at Manchester City following the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma, would be a perfect fit. 'He's there, he's available. Why don't we go and get him, James Trafford?' he asked.
Leeds United are reportedly close to signing the 23-year-old England international, but Mikel wants Chelsea to hijack the move. 'Everybody is trying to get him right now. Donnarumma is going to play. He wants to play. An English goalkeeper, a young and talented goalkeeper, 23 years old. Why don't we go and get him?'
Context of Chelsea's summer activity
Chelsea have been active under new manager Xabi Alonso, making a £117m move for Morgan Rogers and adding experienced players like Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson. However, the goalkeeping position remains a concern, with Mikel insisting that every Chelsea fan is 'crying out' for a change.
