Latvian goalkeeper in Italian third tier open to Chelsea transfer, says agent

As Chelsea continue to find solutions to a future without backup goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, a number of players seem to be on our summer shortlist to fill in his place. One name that was not on the shortlist is Reinis Reinholds — confirmed to be a real player with a Transfermarkt and Soccerway profile — who currently plays for Racing Club Roma in the third tier of the Italian league, after joining them in January. He started the season at fourth tier Civitanovese.

Reports in the Italian media have recently claimed that Chelsea sent scouts to watch the 19-year-old in Racing Club Roma's 2-1 win over Robur Siena. Unsurprisingly, this pleases Reinholds' agent, Camillo Autieri who is more than happy to talk up a potential switch to Chelsea.

"For sure Chelsea's rumours sounds good for us. Chelsea is a great club and English football is wonderful. I know the goalkeeper trainer in Chelsea, Gianluca Spinelli, and he is a big professional."

"Gianluca knows Reinis and for sure he could give a positive impression about him. But I haven't had contact with Chelsea for now. If rumours will become a serious interest from the Blues, me, Reinholds and Racing Club will be happy to close the deal. In my opinion, Reinis, now or in the future, will play in the Premier League."

-Camillo Autieri; Source: Football.London

This is undoubtedly an odd story and a rather random transfer target, but name-dropping Spinelli adds legitimacy to the agent’s claim, and it’s not like Chelsea haven’t signed the odd long-shot prospect, especially at goalkeeper (how’s life, Matej Delac?). And who knows, maybe Reinholds — ed. note: that’s Judge Reinholds, future Chelsea legend — is the gem of the Italian third tier, ready to be the next Dino Zoff, or some such.