Chelsea are weighing up a move for goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli, according to a recent report from The Athletic. 

Bettinelli had previously been on the books with Fulham, but left the club in the summer, when his contract with the Cottagers reached a conclusion.

The shot-stopper played an important role in Fulham's two promotion winning seasons in recent years, and seemingly isn't short of offers heading into the 2021/22 campaign.

Birmingham City are also believed to have tabled an offer to the 29-year-old this summer, as they look to strengthen their goalkeeping department, with Neil Etheridge recently being released from hospital.

The Athletic have now revealed that Chelsea are keen to find a goalkeeper to fill their third-choice option between the posts, after Willy Caballero's departure in the summer.

"One minor position they need to fill is third-choice goalkeeper following the departure of Willy Caballero. Two men under consideration are Wayne Hennessey, 34, and 29-year-old Marcus Bettinelli, who are free agents after their contracts at Crystal Palace and Fulham respectively expired."

Birmingham are set to take on Sheffield United in their opening match of the 2021/22 campaign, in what is likely to be a tough test up against Slavisa Jokanovic's side at Bramall Lane.

The Verdict: 

This will be frustrating update to hear of for the Birmingham City supporters.

You would have imagined that a move to the Championship side could have tempted Bettinelli, especially if he was given assurances over regular minutes with Lee Bowyer's side.

But with a club the stature of Chelsea reportedly registering their interest in landing his signature this summer, this could be too good of an opportunity to turn down for Bettinelli.

Birmingham will have to act swiftly, and do all they can to strike an agreement with the shot-stopper at the earliest of opportunities, although they might find themselves fighting a losing battle with Chelsea now keen on a deal.