Mark Schwarzer Backs Surprise Chelsea Move for James Trafford as Robert Sanchez is labelled 'inconsistent'

Chelsea’s goalkeeping department could be in for another shake-up this January, with former Blues goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer suggesting that the club may explore a move for Manchester City’s James Trafford. The young English shot-stopper is growing frustrated with his lack of minutes at the Etihad and could be open to a mid-season switch—something Schwarzer believes Chelsea should not ignore.

Trafford, who returned to City from Burnley in the summer, looked like he was on track to replace Ederson after the Brazilian left for Fenerbahce. But that plan collapsed when City swooped in late on deadline day to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain. Since then, Trafford has slipped into the shadows, making only three cup appearances since August and watching from the sidelines as Donnarumma claimed the No.1 spot.

Reports have indicated that the 21-year-old is growing increasingly worried about his chances of making England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, especially with fierce competition ahead of him. And according to Schwarzer, that situation could create the perfect opening for Chelsea.

‘You Can’t Write Anything Off’: Schwarzer Opens the Door

Speaking on The Joe Fortune Show, Schwarzer did little to cool the speculation surrounding Trafford and Chelsea.

“James Trafford for Chelsea? You can’t write anything off,” he said.

“Wherever he goes, he has to make sure he’s playing. He’s got to join a club that is signing him as the No.1, and of course, he has to perform.”

Schwarzer’s comments reflect what many observers believe: that Chelsea may soon need to revisit the keeper position, not because Robert Sanchez is a bad goalkeeper, but because the inconsistencies remain too frequent for a club with ambitions of returning to the Premier League’s top tier.

Trafford: A Talent Looking for a Stage

Despite limited minutes at Manchester City this season, Trafford remains one of England’s most highly rated young keepers. His loan spell at Burnley last year showed his shot-stopping ability and calmness under pressure, and many expected him to take a major step forward this season.

Instead, Donnarumma’s arrival changed everything.

Now, Trafford finds himself fighting for scraps of playing time—and with a World Cup less than two years away, that is a battle he cannot afford to lose. Schwarzer was clear about what Trafford must prioritise:

“He needs to find a club, even on loan, where he will play every week and show what a good goalkeeper he is.”

And for a club rebuilding like Chelsea, attracting a young, ambitious, hungry keeper could be a smart move—especially if Sanchez fails to fully convince.

Robert Sanchez: Improved But Still Under the Microscope

Even though Sanchez has shown growth in recent months, the concerns remain. The Spaniard arrived from Brighton in 2023, and while he has had excellent performances—most notably the Club World Cup final—he has also produced mistakes that have cost Chelsea points.

Schwarzer praised parts of the keeper’s development but didn’t shy away from the ongoing issues.

“The problem is consistency,” the former Australia international said.

“At a big club, you need consistency. His shot-stopping has improved, he has made big saves, but his distribution and decision-making are still a concern.”

Chelsea fans have echoed this. Sanchez often comes under immediate pressure whenever he makes a misjudged pass or hesitates with the ball at his feet, something that has happened too often for supporters’ liking.

Schwarzer added:

“Even if you play well for six months, the minute you make another mistake, people get on your back.”

That pressure doesn’t go away easily—especially at a club desperately trying to climb back into Champions League contention.

Chelsea’s Long-Standing Goalkeeper Search

Since the departure of Edouard Mendy and the decline of Kepa Arrizabalaga’s form, Chelsea have been linked with a new goalkeeper almost every transfer window.

Schwarzer believes the position still needs addressing:

“It’s been a position everyone thinks Chelsea will strengthen, and they haven’t. If you want to win big trophies—Premier League, Champions League—you need a top-top goalkeeper.”

The question is whether Chelsea see Trafford as that long-term solution.

At 21, he fits the club’s recruitment model: young, high-ceiling, English, technically strong, and available at a price that could grow into a major asset.

But for Trafford to even consider moving, he will need guarantees about minutes—something Chelsea have not always been willing to offer young keepers.

A January Decision That Could Shape Two Clubs

Chelsea’s interest in Trafford—if it becomes serious—could create one of the more intriguing transfer stories in January. City will not want to lose a talented young keeper, but Trafford’s desire for first-team football may force their hand.

For Chelsea, it is simple: if Sanchez cannot deliver consistent top-level performances, the club must look at alternatives.

And Schwarzer believes Trafford might just be one of them.

In the end, January could become a defining period for both keepers—one trying to secure his future, and the other fighting to prove he can finally be the reliable presence Chelsea have been searching for.