Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is close to joining Italian club Como on a season long loan deal.
The 28-year-old Spaniard lost his starting role at Stamford Bridge following Chelsea's acquisition of Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on Sunday, August 30. The arrival of Martinez cleared the way for the Spanish goalkeeper to leave London and pursue a new challenge outside English football.
Como moved to secure Sanchez on a one year loan after reaching a verbal agreement with Chelsea. According to sports reporter Fabrizio Romano, the two clubs have agreed on main terms, leaving only standard administrative procedures to be completed before the transfer is signed.
Goalkeeper replacement at Como
The Italian side identified Sanchez as their primary choice to replace goalkeeper Noel Tornqvist, who is departing Como for Serie A rivals Monza. Upon completing his move to Italy, Sanchez will become teammates with Greek international forward Tasos Douvikas.
Como compete in Serie A, the top flight of Italian professional football, playing their home matches in northern Italy. Chelsea are based in West London and compete in the English Premier League, where Sanchez had been playing prior to his potential exit.
European fixtures against AEK Athens
The move is of particular interest to Greek football fans because Como will face AEK Athens in the League Phase of the UEFA Champions League. Sanchez is set to line up against the Greek team as part of his new European campaign with Como.
AEK Athens, also known as Enosi, are one of the most prominent football clubs in Greece. The UEFA Champions League features a League Phase format where clubs play matches against opponents from across the continent.
The completion of final procedural details will allow Sanchez to complete his transfer to Italy and join up with his new squad ahead of their upcoming domestic and European fixtures.
