Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is set for a permanent transfer to 14-time Champions League winners Real Madrid, football.london understands.
The move comes as an urgent response by Los Blancos to replace former Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. The Belgian star who left Stamford Bridge in 2018 tore the cruciate ligament in his left knee last week, which will likely see the Belgian shot stopper out for most, if not all, of the upcoming campaign.
Bayern Munich had previously registered their formal interest in signing the 13-time capped Spain international, although both Chelsea and Kepa were less keen in accepting their proposal of a loan with a buy option, whilst Los Blancos have made a move.
Real Madrid start their La Liga campaign away to Kepa’s former side Athletic, with a likely start for young Ukraine international Andrey Lunin. However, it is expected he will remain as the second choice following the Spaniard’s arrival.
Kepa arrived in London in 2018 from Athletic after his €80million (£71.6million) release clause was activated, making him the world’s most expensive goalkeeper – a record that still stands. Kepa endured a turbulent and eventful first season, characterised by an iconic exchange with former Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri in the 2019 Carabao Cup final.
The 28 year old has since turned around his fortunes, enjoying his best campaign to date last season and was expected to be the club’s No.1 this season following the exit of Edouard Mendy. However, following the £20million (rising to £25million with add-ons) transfer of fellow countryman Robert Sanchez from Brighton and Hove Albion, it seems Kepa is set to move to the Spanish side.
