Chelsea could have another future superstar waiting in the wings, with Xabi Alonso drawing comparisons between Mike Penders and one of the greatest goalkeepers to ever represent the club.

The Blues have invested heavily in building a squad capable of competing for major honours, but their long-term plans are not limited to established stars.

Developing young talent remains a crucial part of their strategy, and one Belgian shot-stopper is beginning to attract plenty of attention.

With an opportunity now presenting itself at Stamford Bridge, the 21-year-old could be about to take a significant step forward in his career.

Xabi Alonso reveals what Thibaut Courtois told him about Mike Penders

Speaking about the similarities between Penders and Thibaut Courtois, Alonso revealed that the Real Madrid goalkeeper had also noticed the resemblance between the two compatriots.

"A lot of similarities. Not just the nationality, but the stature. I spoke with Thibaut as well at the World Cup. He said himself he could see resemblances with Mike," the Chelsea boss told Football London.

The comparison is certainly a big one, given Courtois established himself as one of the world's best goalkeepers after initially joining Chelsea from Genk in 2011.

The 34-year-old spent three seasons on loan at Atletico Madrid before eventually becoming the Blues' first-choice goalkeeper, winning two Premier League titles during his time in west London.

Penders has followed a similar route, joining Chelsea from Genk before spending last season on loan at sister club Strasbourg, where he impressed with his performances between the posts.

Standing at around 6ft 7in, the Belgian possesses the physical presence that made Courtois such a formidable opponent, although he still has plenty of development ahead of him before he can be mentioned in the same breath as the Real Madrid star.

Mike Penders handed opportunity to impress at Chelsea

Penders' similarities to Courtois are particularly relevant given the situation currently unfolding at Stamford Bridge.

Emiliano Martinez's injury has created an opening for the youngster, who made his Premier League debut against Everton last weekend after replacing the Argentine during Chelsea's 2-0 victory.

The former Genk goalkeeper helped the Blues preserve their clean sheet, offering an encouraging glimpse of what he could bring to Alonso's side.

With Martinez unavailable, Penders is expected to start against Tottenham on Saturday, handing him a major opportunity to demonstrate that he can handle the demands of Premier League football.

Alonso has already made it clear that he trusts the youngster, describing him as brave and insisting that Chelsea have full confidence in his ability.

The comparisons with Courtois will inevitably bring expectations, but Penders has the chance to begin writing his own story in west London.