Chelsea Signs Goalkeeper Mike Penders for £17M

Chelsea have agreed to sign 19-year-old Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders from Genk for approximately £17 million (€20 million), with the deal set to officially take effect in the summer of 2025. Penders, who recently made his senior debut for Genk, will remain with the Belgian club on loan for the remainder of the season. The young goalkeeper has signed a long-term contract with Chelsea until 2032, becoming the club's 12th signing this summer. Chelsea, under the ownership fronted by Todd Boehly, has been criticized for its extensive acquisition strategy, already holding over 50 players and seven goalkeepers under contract. The club aims to offload several high-profile players like Raheem Sterling, Romelu Lukaku, and Ben Chilwell before the transfer window closes.