Chelsea have the chance to sign one of Germany's most promising young goalkeepers for nothing. The London club is keeping an eye on 17-year-old Bayern Munich shot-stopper Leonard Prescott, who could leave the Bavarian side in the summer of 2027.
According to Sky Deutschland, contract extension talks have stalled for several months. Prescott’s current deal expires next summer, and he doubts his prospects of breaking into Bayern's first team.
The crux of the issue lies in the fierce competition for places. The club’s first-choice goalkeeper remains 40-year-old Manuel Neuer, while the heir apparent is considered to be Jonas Urbig. Prescott's camp is aware that his chances of taking the number one spot are extremely slim.
Other European clubs are poised to take advantage of the situation. Besides Chelsea, Juventus and several Bundesliga teams are also showing interest in the young keeper.
Chelsea had already explored the possibility of signing the German earlier this year and continue to monitor his situation closely.
Prescott joined Bayern’s academy from Union in 2023. Last season, he featured in 16 matches for the U19s, conceding 29 goals while managing to keep a clean sheet on one occasion. He also played four matches in the UEFA Youth League.
He was promoted to the reserve team over the summer but has yet to make his debut.
At Chelsea, Emiliano Martinez, signed from Aston Villa in August, occupies the goalkeeping spot. Therefore, Prescott is unlikely to immediately secure playing time in Xabi Alonso's first team.
Additionally, the young goalkeeper won't turn 18 until September 2027, meaning that due to international transfer rules regarding minors, his move to England next summer will require careful consideration regarding the timing of the transfer.
No official offers have been made for Prescott at this time, but the protracted contract talks with Bayern increase the likelihood of his exit. For Chelsea, this presents an opportunity to secure a talented goalkeeper without a transfer fee.
