The deal is done. Genk's youth product Mike Penders has secured his dream transfer to Chelsea. In doing so, the Genk goalkeeping academy delivers a new gold rush. In the 2022-20223 season, Penders made his professional football debut at the age of 16 on the opening day of the Challenger Pro League, with a resounding 4-1 win against Lierse SK. Faithful followers of Jong Genk could see him at work last season as a regular between the posts and undisputed leader and captain of our youngsters. This season, at the age of 18, he made his debut in the highest division of our football.
In the footsteps of Courtois
With his impressive presence and ditto performances, the 2-metre tall Uikhoven player attracted the attention of several European superpowers, including PSG. In the end, it was Chelsea who managed to lure Penders to London. In doing so, he follows in the footsteps of two absolute club legends, De Bruyne and Courtois.
Growing further in familiar nest
At Chelsea, they see a great future for Penders, judging by the contract of no less than eight (!) seasons that is waiting for him. A wonderful step in his still young career that the whole Genk family is immensely proud of. Not to skip any steps, Mike can continue to grow quietly this season under the wings of Guy Martens and Thorsten Fink in his familiar surroundings at the foot of the Genk terril.
