Bournemouth have completed the signing of Serbian international goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic from Chelsea in a £25 million deal.
The 25-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the Cherries.
Petrovic, who joined Chelsea in 2023, spent last season on loan at French club Strasbourg, where he was named Player of the Season.
His exceptional shot-stopping ability stood out, preventing nearly 10 goals more than the average goalkeeper based on expected goals on target (xGOT), a figure that ranked him sixth in Europe’s top five leagues.
Despite concerns at Chelsea regarding his distribution, Petrovic’s passing accuracy surpassed that of current Chelsea number one Robert Sanchez. Sanchez, however, excelled in the Club World Cup, earning the Golden Glove.
Petrovic expressed his ambition to “grow and play at the best level” with Bournemouth, becoming their third summer signing.
He replaces former Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who joined Arsenal.
In Serbia, Petrovic’s rise is celebrated, with comparisons to Manuel Neuer and national hero status achieved after a crucial penalty save.
His former coaches commend his physicality and effectiveness in one-on-one situations and penalty saves.