Share

Chelsea sign back-up keeper

London - Chelsea have signed former Italy goalkeeper Marco Amelia on a free transfer, the Premier League club announced on Thursday.

Blues boss Jose Mourinho moved for Amelia to ensure he has experienced back-up as cover for Asmir Begovic, with first-choice Thibaut Courtois currently out injured.

Amelia has agreed a contract until the end of the season and will be available for Chelsea when they return to Premier League action against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge on October 17.

The 33-year-old, who won nine international caps between 2005 and 2009, began his career with Roma and also spent four years at AC Milan, before joining Serie B side Perugia last season.

He had been training with the Blues at their Cobham headquarters and impressed enough to earn a deal.

Academy keeper Jamal Blackman, 21, who has yet to make a first-team appearance, has been on the Chelsea bench in recent weeks.

Courtois is expected to be back in action in December after suffering knee ligament damage in training last month.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE