Former Belgian international, Franky Van der Elst, has strongly criticized Chelsea’s transfer policy.
Van der Elst believes that the Blues’ activities in the transfer market are unprecedented.
The ex-Belgian star expressed his displeasure with Chelsea’s decision to acquire KRC Genk goalkeeper, Mike Penders.
At just 19 years old, Penders is set to join Chelsea after the club reached a €20m agreement with the Belgian side.
Despite already having Filip Jorgensen from Villarreal on board this summer, Chelsea’s goalkeeping department is further bolstered by Robert Sanchez and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
In an interview with Het Nieuwsblad, as reported by HITC, Van der Elst stated, “To see right after his debut for Genk that he is being pursued by Chelsea – and for such a hefty sum – is quite staggering.”
He added, “This type of transfer operation is unparalleled. Perhaps even unprecedented. Chelsea’s current approach – constant acquisitions with the hope that one will eventually succeed – is, in my opinion, unfavorable for the sport.”
“Chelsea currently has seven or eight goalkeepers, doesn’t it? They recently splashed out €25 million for Filip Jorgensen, another young goalkeeper three years senior to Penders, who has already proved himself with a season at Villarreal’s first team. It’s safe to assume he will hold a higher standing in the team’s plans,” Van der Elst emphasized.