Crewe Alexandra have confirmed that signing a 'goalkeeper of quality' is a top priority for the club this summer - following the release of Will Jaaskelainen.

It was revealed by Crewe last week (May 4), that Jaaskelainen would be released alongside club captain Luke Murphy, Chris Porter and five others.

After loan spells with Chester and Nantwich, Will became first-choice goalkeeper for the Alex during the 2019/20 campaign - winning promotion from League Two.

After a solid 12th placed finish in League One for the 2020/21 season, Will Jaaskelainen was named as in the Sky Sports League One team of the season. He was awarded a rating of 6.77.

This campaign Jaaskelainen struggled for form - starting just 14 times.

Assistant Manager Lee Bell is impressed with Dave Richards recent performances - he targets a new goalkeeper to compete with Richards (Crewe Alex).

The 23-year-old couldn't cement his place within the side and was pushed out of the starting XI by Dave Richards.

This week, Lee Bell told Crewe Alexandra's website: "Dave came into the team and did well enough to become the number one.

"We felt that Will needed a fresh challenge and he felt the same way too."

"He is a smashing fella, he is a top professional. He trains well every day and everyone wishes him well at his next club.

The Railwaymen are now busy identifying a new goalkeeper to compete with Richards for the 2021/22 season back in League Two.

Today (May 11), Lee Bell told Crewe Alexandra's website: "We want that competition throughout the squad and the goalkeeper position will be no different.

"We have Dave Richards, who has deserved to have established himself as number one, and young Tom Booth.

"We will look to bring in another goalkeeper. We want a goalkeeper of quality.

"We feel that when we do there is going to be real competition for the position and it will push Dave on as well."

Dave Richards has cemented his place as first choice goalkeeper with a number of good performanaces this season (Crewe Alex).

Crewe Alexandra aim to conduct the majority of their transfer business before the return to pre-season

The club would like get the ball rolling - hoping to make signings within the next two to three weeks.

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