Chelsea goalkeeper Eduardo extends contract

Chelsea goalkeeper Eduardo has extended his contract at Stamford Bridge for another year after successful talks at Cobham Training Ground this week.

Eduardo is currently acting as Chelsea's third-choice goalkeeper and has not made an appearance for the club since signing from Dinamo Zagreb in August 2016. 

The 34-year-old Portugal international's contract was due to expire at the end of June, but his renewal was made official on Tuesday afternoon. In a statement released by the club, Eduardo said he was pleased with how his first year in west London has gone.

"I am very happy to stay at Chelsea for another year," Eduardo said. "This season has been very successful for the club and everybody has made me feel like a part of the family. I hope next season can be just as positive and we can win many more trophies."

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Chelsea's club policy is to only offer players over the age of 30 a one-year extension as they did with the likes of John Terry and Branislav Ivanovic in previous seasons.

Thibaut Courtois is set to remain Chelsea's number one goalkeeper, despite interest from Real Madrid, while Asmir Begovic is expected to leave the club as he seeks regular first-team football.

’Wenger needs to be more like Mou’

Bournemouth are interested in securing Begovic for next season after failing with a bid for the Bosnian during the January transfer window. 

If Chelsea lose Begovic, Eduardo will likely remain the club's third-choice goalkeeper as Antonio Conte seeks another option to deputise for Courtois. 

Technical director Michael Emenalo explained Eduardo's contribution to Chelsea, despite him not making an appearance in his first season at the club. 

"Since joining us last summer, Eduardo has been a model professional. He has used his wealth of experience at the top level to bring the very best from his fellow goalkeepers and has been a reliable, popular and respected member of the squad.

"We are delighted he has chosen to commit his future to Chelsea."