The 26-year-old Serbian international, who joined Roma on a free transfer from Benfica in 2022, has emerged as a standout performer in Serie A this season, boasting one of the league’s highest save percentages and contributing to 11 clean sheets across competitions. His development into a reliable, modern shot-stopper—strong in distribution, commanding in the box, and capable of high-level saves—has caught the eye of top English sides seeking long-term stability between the posts.
Reliable sources, including industry insiders cited by CaughtOffside on January 16, 2026, confirm that Chelsea and Manchester United are actively monitoring Svilar. For Chelsea, under new head coach Liam Rosenior, the interest stems from uncertainties in their current setup. Robert Sánchez has faced criticism for high-profile errors (including in recent defeats like the EFL Cup semi-final loss to Arsenal), while Filip Jorgensen has been linked with potential exits amid limited minutes and reported pushes for more playing time (with Besiktas mentioned). Svilar’s ball-playing ability aligns well with Rosenior’s possession-oriented philosophy, making him an attractive option for bolstering the backline’s foundation.
Manchester United, meanwhile, view Svilar as a potential long-term No.1 capable of competing at Champions League level for the next 7-8 years. With questions over André Onana’s consistency and Altay Bayindir likely departing permanently at season’s end, the Red Devils seek a stable, elite goalkeeper to anchor their rebuild. Reports indicate United prioritize this area alongside midfield and defense reinforcements, though a €60m outlay in January could prove challenging given other needs.
Roma, having secured Svilar for free, see any deal near €60m as exceptional business and are in a strong negotiating position. The goalkeeper market is anticipated to heat up significantly in 2026, with multiple elite clubs hunting for new first-choice options. While Svilar has impressed overall, occasional errors (noted in the recent EFL Cup semi-final against Arsenal) have been highlighted, but his upside remains high.
Chelsea’s January activity remains cautious due to FFP (Financial Fair Play) restrictions and competing priorities—particularly in midfield and attack—making a €60m January move for Svilar highly unlikely in the short term. The Blues have focused on defensive additions like a centre-back (with targets including Jérémy Jacquet and Jacobo Ramón) and potential outgoings to balance the squad. No major incomings have been confirmed as of January 16, with the window closing February 2.
United’s transfer approach under their current setup (with Michael Carrick interim until summer) has been similarly measured, though goalkeeper stability ranks high. Other clubs, including Tottenham (also linked to Svilar in some reports, with valuations occasionally cited up to €70m), add to the competition.
Broader context shows both clubs navigating transitional periods: Chelsea post-Maresca with Rosenior implementing changes, and United addressing ongoing squad evolution. Svilar’s profile fits the mold of a high-potential, cost-effective long-term investment compared to pricier alternatives. For now, interest is at the monitoring stage rather than advanced negotiations—no bids or concrete talks have surfaced publicly.
As the window progresses, a late push could emerge if priorities shift or other targets prove unattainable, but sources emphasize summer 2026 as more realistic for a blockbuster goalkeeper move. Fans on platforms like X have reacted with intrigue, debating whether €60m represents value for a “superstar” in the making or if clubs should wait for contract dynamics to evolve. This dual interest underscores the premium placed on reliable goalkeeping in today’s game, with Svilar positioned as a prime candidate to spark a bidding war down the line. (Word count: 852)
