According to a report by The Chelsea Chronicle on October 21, 2026, four Premier League clubs are interested in signing Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders, just days after he made his debut in the English top flight. Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, Bournemouth and Everton are reportedly monitoring the 21-year-old Belgian, who recently made his first Premier League appearance for the Blues.

Penders made his debut during Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Everton last Saturday after Emiliano Martínez was forced off with a fractured jaw. The injury is expected to keep Martínez out for around 45 to 60 days, leaving Penders in line for an extended spell in the first team.

The young goalkeeper is now expected to start when Chelsea face Tottenham Hotspur this weekend. His performances during Martínez’s absence could provide an opportunity to demonstrate that he can compete at the highest level and potentially challenge for the No. 1 position.

According to Si Phillips Talks Chelsea, Brentford, Brighton, Bournemouth and Everton are all interested in Penders. However, interest from the four clubs does not necessarily mean that Chelsea are prepared to sell him.

The Blues have high hopes for the Belgian goalkeeper and are unlikely to sanction a permanent departure in January. Chelsea view Penders as an important part of their goalkeeping plans, particularly given the uncertainty that injuries can create over the course of a season.

His recent experience in France could also help explain the interest in his services. Penders spent time with Strasbourg, where he gained valuable senior experience before returning to Chelsea. His performances there have helped establish his reputation as a promising young goalkeeper.

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is also likely to value having a capable backup available. With Martínez facing a period on the sidelines, losing another goalkeeper would leave the squad with fewer options during a demanding part of the campaign.

Penders could therefore have an important role to play over the coming weeks. If he impresses against Tottenham and in subsequent matches, he could strengthen his position within Alonso’s plans and potentially increase competition for the starting spot.

The situation also comes as Chelsea pursue Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, who has reportedly attracted interest from the Blues ahead of January. Bournemouth had been reluctant to sell Scott but are now thought to be more open to a potential deal.

For now, Chelsea are expected to prioritise retaining Penders rather than allowing him to leave permanently. Although four Premier League clubs are reportedly interested, his opportunity to play regularly during Martínez’s absence could prove crucial to his future at Stamford Bridge.