High-profile English clubs are already looking for defensive reinforcements as the summer window approaches. Arsenal are in an important position right now, chasing a historic league title while dealing with intense pressure from Manchester City. Their reliance on a settled backline is key, but there are still rumours about squad rotation and long-term planning in North London.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are continuing their massive investment project, always looking for upgrades to get back to the top of European football. Both London clubs know that having a world-class goalkeeper is often what separates a championship-winning season from a regular one in such a tough league.

Arsenal and Chelsea are also keeping a close watch on Bart Verbruggen

Reports from transfer specialist Ekrem Konur suggest that Brighton expects Bart Verbruggen to leave the south coast this summer. Inter Milan are currently leading the race for the talented Dutchman, though giants like Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, and Chelsea are also keeping a close watch.

Brighton are holding firm on their price tag, expecting a big profit on a player who has already proven himself in the Premier League. Statistically, Verbruggen has played well despite how chaotic top-flight football can be, conceding 33 goals with eight clean sheets across 32 matches in the 2025/2026 season.

These numbers show he concede a goal every 87 minutes, which is a solid 1.03 goals-conceded ratio per 90 minutes. Footy Stats also points out his technical skill, noting he saved 91 out of 128 shots for a save percentage of 71.09%. That kind of consistency from a young keeper naturally draws interest from elite clubs who want a player who can both stop shots and play out from the back. (Stats via Footy Stats)

Should Arsenal or Chelsea prioritise signing Bart Verbruggen?

Arsenal should probably pass on this transfer because David Raya has proven he is the clear number one through his consistent performances in the title race. Bringing in Verbruggen would just repeat the awkward tension from the Aaron Ramsdale era, which usually ends up stalling a talented player’s career.

£90 million for him! Manchester United have the edge for Arsenal’s transfer target

Chelsea, however, should go after this deal aggressively. Robert Sanchez hasn’t provided the elite-level security a club like Chelsea need. Verbruggen has a much higher ceiling and the composure that the decision-makers at Stamford Bridge are looking for in their new project. While Inter Milan might offer him a guaranteed starting spot in Italy, the chance to stay in England and join a Chelsea side that need a long-term solution makes the most sense. Arsenal would be buying a luxury they don’t need, but for Chelsea, it would finally fix a major weakness in the team.