Chelsea Transfer News: Asmir Begovic Rumoured as Possible Petr Cech Replacement

Chelsea are "preparing" an £8 million offer for Stoke City goalkeeper Asmir Begovic for when Petr Cech inevitably leaves the club, reported by Matt Law of the Telegraph.

The Blues won't allow Cech to depart west London until a quality replacement is lined up. That's according to the Mirror's Darren Lewis, who suggests Stoke are confident Begovic would rather remain a first-team figure at the Britannia Stadium than waste away on the Stamford Bridge bench.

Law adds that Chelsea will need to "convince" Begovic the move will be worthwhile. The Bosnian will encounter the same problem that has hindered Cech's career if he does move—trying to dismantle youngster Thibaut Courtois from the No. 1 spot—a task which appears impossible right now.

Kirsty Wigglesworth/Associated Press

Cech continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal, reported by Sami Mokbel of the MailOnline. However, Mokbel notes Mourinho is "playing hardball" with the Gunners because he doesn't want to improve a squad who could potentially challenge Chelsea for the English title.

"For me, decision number one, Petr will stay," said Mourinho, reported by David Hytner of the Guardian. "After that, second point, to go but not in England." Even so, Mokbel reported Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich won't stop Cech heading to the Emirates Stadium.

Begovic would be an ideal replacement and isn't too dissimilar to the Czech Republic international. Both men stand at 6'4" and are able to command the box with their natural presence. Their long frames enable them to cover the width of the goal and offer an important last line of defence. Neither keeper is particularly inspiring with the ball at his feet, though.

Michael Regan/Getty Images

It's surprising someone of Begovic's quality hasn't moved on by now. At 27 years old he is ready to compete at a club who at least enjoy some form of regular European football. Chelsea would offer the chance to challenge for plenty of silverware, but it's unlikely he'd be heavily involved in the main competitions.

Cech made just six Premier League starts during the 2014-15 run to the title. He played four matches en route to the Capital One Cup success, adding only two FA Cup and three Champions League appearances to his seasonal total. This lack of playing time has ultimately led to his likely transfer.

James Robson of the Manchester Evening News recently commented on Begovic and suggested he could have other high-profile suitors:

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

Barring an injury to Courtois, Begovic's main occupation would be benchwarmer under Mourinho's tutelage. He deserves better than that after a quality tenure in the Premier League, even if Stoke manager Mark Hughes may be looking to finally give youngster Jack Butland his break.

He would be an ideal signing for Mourinho—Begovic is proven, reliable and eager to succeed—who is savvy in the transfer market. However, it would be disappointing to see Begovic's career significantly slowed because he cannot overcome the brilliance of Courtois.