Transfer Gossip: ESPN sources claim Bolton Wanderers beat Sheffield United to sign Chelsea goalkeeper

Yesterday, goal and The Mirror both reported that Bolton Wanderers were close to securing the loan signing of Chelsea goalkeeper, Jamal Blackman. Now, ESPN are the next publication to report the bizarre transfer story.

ESPN reported on their site:

"Chelsea goalkeeper Jamal Blackman is in line to join Bolton Wanderers on loan, sources close to the Premier League club have told ESPN FC.

Blackman is back at Chelsea after spending last season on loan at Wycombe Wanderers, where he impressed in his 52 appearances for the League Two side. A number of clubs have expressed an interest in taking Blackman on loan, including Sheffield United, but Championship side Bolton are poised to win the race for the former England under-19 international.

Chelsea are set to secure Blackman on a new deal at Stamford Bridge first before sanctioning the loan move to Bolton for next season. Blackman has had three spells out on loan at Middlesbrough, Swedish side Ostersunds and Wycombe over the last three seasons and Chelsea want to loan him out again."

I'm still sceptical of this rumour. For this to even happen, Ben Amos and one of Ben Alnwick/Mark Howard would have to be sold. Wanderers certainly don't need any more goalkeepers.

So, do you think this rumour has any validity? Let us know in the comments box below.