English football's transfer deadline day produced a flurry of late business, with Chelsea overhauling their goalkeeping department and Sunderland strengthening their defence as both clubs looked to finalise their squads before the window slammed shut.
Chelsea confirmed that goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has left Stamford Bridge on a season-long loan to Serie A outfit Como, who will compete in the Champions League for the first time in their history under the guidance of former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas. The move brings an end, at least temporarily, to a spell in west London that began in August 2023 when Sanchez arrived from Brighton and Hove Albion.
The 28-year-old had been expected to retain his status as Chelsea's number one this season, but a costly pair of errors during the club's 3-2 opening-day victory over Fulham prompted a swift change of plan. Those mistakes led Chelsea to reconsider their reliance on Sanchez and understudy Mike Penders, and the club moved quickly to bring in Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa for £7.5 million. The Argentine, who had made his desire to leave Villa clear, was subsequently installed as first-choice goalkeeper, leaving Sanchez surplus to requirements.
During his time at Chelsea, Sanchez made 112 appearances and was part of the squad that lifted both the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. In a statement announcing his departure, the club said: "We look forward to supporting Rob throughout his time in Italy. Good luck, Rob!"
Chelsea's deadline day activity did not stop there, with young striker Dujuan 'Whisper' Richards also heading out on loan to AFC Wimbledon as the Blues continued to trim their squad.
Elsewhere, Sunderland moved to bolster their backline by securing Austria international Kevin Danso on loan from Tottenham Hotspur. The deal, which will cost the Black Cats £2.5 million initially, includes an option to make the transfer permanent for £22.5 million next summer, contingent on Sunderland retaining their Premier League status.
The 27-year-old defender, who joined Spurs from RC Lens in January 2025 and went on to make 52 appearances for the north London club, expressed his enthusiasm about the switch. "I'm really happy to be here and I can't wait to get started," Danso said. "Sunderland is a big club with huge ambition, and I'm excited to be part of what we're building this season." His arrival comes as Sunderland prepare for their first European campaign since 1973 under head coach Regis Le Bris.
Danso's departure from Tottenham coincided with the club's pursuit of Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo, with Roberto de Zerbi's side having an offer accepted for the 28-year-old on Monday night. Adarabioyo, who progressed through Manchester City's academy before spells at Fulham and Chelsea, has made more than 70 appearances for the Blues since joining in 2024, winning both the Conference League and Club World Cup along the way.
In a separate move, Tottenham also completed a loan deal for Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk before deadline night concluded, rounding off a hectic period of business across the Premier League as clubs finalised their squads ahead of the new season.
Based on reporting from Standard Football and BBC Sport Football.