By OkayGoal
Chelsea are reportedly considering a move for Bayern Munich teenage goalkeeper Leonard Prescott, with a Bosman deal a genuine possibility next summer. Sky Sport Deutschland journalists Kerry Hau and Luca Sixtus report that contract negotiations between the 17-year-old and the Bundesliga champions have not gone as smoothly as Bayern hoped.
Prescott is said to be concerned about his long-term pathway. His representatives understand Bayern’s plan to make Jonas Urbig the number one once Manuel Neuer retires, which has fuelled speculation about an exit. Juventus are also monitoring the situation.
Who Is Leonard Prescott?
Born in New York, Prescott moved through the youth ranks at Union Berlin before joining Bayern in July 2023. The German youth international has made 16 appearances for the club’s under-19 side, keeping one clean sheet and conceding 29 goals. Even so, his shot-stopping has caught the eye, and he has already featured in senior matchday squads on several occasions.
His contract now has 12 months remaining, putting him in a strong position to leave for nothing next summer.
Would Chelsea Be the Right Move?
Bayern are also searching for a new backup keeper, with Bernd Leno among their targets, which only adds to Prescott’s concerns. Chelsea may not solve his problem, though. Mike Penders is viewed as the club’s next first-choice goalkeeper, meaning Prescott would likely be competing for minutes behind him at Stamford Bridge.
Juventus could offer a clearer route. Guglielmo Vicario, expected to join the Serie A side permanently, is now 30, so the Turin club may need a long-term successor within a few seasons.
Our Take
From a playing-time perspective, Juventus look the better fit. However, Chelsea’s financial muscle and strong record of recruiting young talent mean they are unlikely to be deterred. Landing a highly rated teenager without paying a transfer fee would also suit the Blues’ long-term squad-building strategy.