Serie A newcomers Como are on the verge of landing Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez on a season-long loan, with multiple transfer sources confirming a verbal agreement has been reached between the two clubs.

Fabrizio Romano, The Athletic, and Sky Sport Italia's Gianluca Di Marzio all confirm the deal is effectively done, according to Football Italia. The arrangement is expected to be a straight loan — no option to purchase at the end of the campaign.

Competition for the gloves

Sanchez will not be handed automatic first-choice status at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. He will compete with Jean Butez, the Belgian goalkeeper who has been Como's established number one. The Spaniard's arrival adds depth and intensity to that battle for the starting berth.

For Sanchez, the move offers a genuine lifeline. The 28-year-old — who turns 29 in November — was Chelsea's first-choice keeper last season, making 50 competitive appearances but managing only 15 clean sheets. His standing at Stamford Bridge collapsed following the high-profile arrival of Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa, which effectively ended his run as the club's starting goalkeeper.

Tottenham Hotspur had also been mentioned as a possible destination for the Spanish international, but Como have moved swiftly to secure his signature on loan.

Champions League football on offer

One compelling incentive for Sanchez is the opportunity to play in the UEFA Champions League. Como earned their place in Europe's premier club competition last season in dramatic fashion — pipping both AC Milan and Juventus to fourth place in Serie A on the final day.

To make room for Sanchez in their goalkeeper department, Como have already moved Noel Tornqvist on — the Swedish shot-stopper has been loaned to fellow Serie A side Monza for the duration of the season.