The key role Petr Cech played in Chelsea's decision to sign Edouard Mendy

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia has revealed they made Edouard Mendy their No1 goalkeeper target on the recommendation of Petr Cech.

Mendy today completed his £22million move to Chelsea from Rennes and signed a five-year contract.

Frank Lampard has targeted a new keeper after losing faith in Kepa Arrizabalaga, who will be under pressure to perform following the arrival of Mendy.

Chelsea initially identified Atletico Madrid’s Jan Oblak but had to lower their sights to more affordable options.

Mendy, a 28-year-old Senegal international, excelled after joining Rennes from Reims last summer and helped them qualify for the Champions League.

His signing takes Chelsea’s summer spending to close to £250m and comes following advice from Cech, the former Blues keeper who became their technical and performance adviser after retiring last summer and is influential in their recruitment.

See you soon, Edouard! 👍#WelcomeMendy pic.twitter.com/ElkbbifmQj

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC)

September 24, 2020

Highlights: Chelsea 6-0 Barnsley

“I think that the match [against Barnsley] was very good to get more confidence and I hope to continue like this on Saturday.

“The most important thing is that we won but it is a very big thing for me personally.”

Lampard: “It was a very good night for Kai and the first of many for him.”