Chelsea Goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic Ready to Leave Club After Club World Cup Snub

Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic is expected to leave the club this summer after being left out of the Blues’ Club World Cup squad, according to reports. But even though he’s set to move on, the situation isn’t as simple as it seems.

According to GIVEMESPORT, Petrovic’s transfer is complicated by an unusual issue — the Serbian international previously sold his image rights to a third party. This deal would need to be sorted out before any club can successfully sign him.

Chelsea’s sister club Strasbourg are reportedly interested in signing Petrovic permanently. The 25-year-old had a strong loan spell with the French side last season, making 31 league appearances and being voted the club’s Player of the Season. Strasbourg’s qualification for the Europa Conference League playoffs could also tempt him to stay.

However, it’s still unclear whether Petrovic wants to commit to Strasbourg long-term, despite his successful loan spell. The Serbian shot-stopper is understood to be exploring all his options.

While Strasbourg remain a serious contender, up to five other European clubs have also contacted Chelsea about Petrovic. If the image rights issue can be resolved, a deal could move quickly in the coming weeks.

Chelsea originally signed Petrovic in a deal worth just under £15 million from the New England Revolution. Since then, his performances for both Chelsea and Strasbourg have increased his market value. The 25-year-old impressed under Mauricio Pochettino during the second half of the 2023/24 season before heading out on loan.

Petrovic had been expected to return to Stamford Bridge this summer and compete for the No.1 goalkeeper spot. But that now seems unlikely. New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is reportedly focused on assessing other options — including Robert Sanchez, new arrival Filip Jorgensen from Genk, and highly-rated academy product Mike Penders.

Chelsea also attempted to sign Mike Maignan from AC Milan but refused to meet the £25 million asking price.

Sources say Petrovic wants to be a clear first-choice keeper, and Chelsea can’t guarantee him that role.

With Chelsea looking elsewhere and Petrovic keen to play regularly, a summer exit now seems likely — but only if the image rights issue is solved. Whether that move is to France, another top European league, or somewhere else entirely remains to be seen.