“You can’t write anything off” - Mark Schwarzer claims Chelsea could launch surprise move for player who joined Man City last summer

Former Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer believes Chelsea could launch a move to sign James Trafford from Manchester City. He claims that the goalkeeper is bound to be looking for an exit, and could start ahead of Robert Sanchez.

Speaking to Joe Fortune, Schwarzer said that Trafford will be keen on playing regularly in the second half of the season and push for an exit from Manchester City. He believes that Chelsea, on loan or permanent, would be ideal for the goalkeeper and said (via Metro):

"James Trafford for Chelsea? You can't write anything off. I think the thing for Trafford is, I think I've met him once or twice, but I think if I were going to give him advice between now and the end of the season with a World Cup around the corner, wherever he goes, he has to make sure he's playing."

"He's got to go to a club where they are signing him as the number one. And of course, he's got to perform. I think he needs to find a club, even if it's on loan, between now and the end of the season where he's going to play week in, week out and prove what a good goalkeeper he is."

Manchester City beat Newcastle United to sign James Trafford in the summer, but replaced him with Gianluigi Donnarumma before the window closed. Football Insider have reported that the Magpies remain interested, while Aston Villa and Tottenham have also shown interest.

Robert Sanchez is not consistent at Chelsea, says Mark Schwarzer

Mark Schwarzer continued to talk about Robert Sanchez, admitting that the goalkeeper has improved in 2025. However, he does not think the Spaniard is consistent enough to be Chelsea's #1 between the posts and said (via Metro):

"The problem is his consistency. When you're at a big club, you need consistency. Look at Manchester United and Andre Onana, Man City and Gianluigi Donnarumma coming in and what he's done already. I will say for Robert Sanchez, I think in the last six months, has improved dramatically."

"He hasn't made as many mistakes as he had done previously. I think he's made some big saves. The Club World Cup final, I think for me, was by far the best game he's ever played for Chelsea. I think obviously there's still some way to go."

The Blues have Mike Penders on loan at Strasbourg, and he is expected to be their #1 in the long term.