Chelsea have made an approach for Birmingham City goalkeeper Jack Butland, according to
TeamTalk. The 19-year old's future has been the subject of much uncertainty recently with a host of clubs including Newcastle, Everton and Southampton chasing his signature. Birmingham are reportedly reciprocal to a deal due to their on-going financial concerns, which has prompted the approach from the European Champions. Though Petr Cech is currently the No.1 at Stamford Bridge, it is thought that Butland would be a long-term investment rather than a direct replacement for the incumbent shot-stopper. Belgian youngster Thibaut Courtois is also impressing on loan at Atletico Madrid from Chelsea, but the Blues still feel that they need more cover in the goalkeeping position. However, a stumbling block in any such deal could be Butland's recent statement that he wishes to join a club where he is playing regular first-team football, something he is unlikely to get at Stamford Bridge. He is currently guaranteed a starting place for Lee Clark's Championship side, and whilst Birmingham would prefer to keep hold of the youngster and nurture his development, the reality is that they could be forced into letting him go. Meanwhile, former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba
has signed for Galatasaray on an 18-month deal.