Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel admits he will hold honest talks over the future of Kepa Arrizabalaga this summer, having hinted for the first time that his exit could be on the cards.
The Spanish keeper became the world’s most expensive keeper in summer 2018 when the Blues met his £71.6m exit fee. Chelsea, having sold Thibaut Courtois to Real Madrid, turned to the Athletic Bilbao stopper in the mammoth deal. Indeed, his signing shattered the previous top fees paid out by Liverpool and Manchester City for Alisson and Ederson, respectively.
However, Kepa’s time in south-west London has not gone as well as some predicted. He has rarely convinced as Chelsea No 1, and was in and out of the side under Frank Lampard’s management.
And to add salt into his wounds, he lost his place to veteran Argentine keeper Willy Caballero.
Ultimately, it was no surprise to see Chelsea ultimately splash out big money again on another keeper. However, it’s fair to say the £22m paid to Rennes for Edouard Mendy has proved a successful investment.
Now in his fourth season at Chelsea, Kepa has played an increasingly dwindling role at the club. In fact, he only featured 14 times in all competitions last season. And it’s been a similar story this, with just 15 games under his belt.
For an 11-times capped Spain international, who is still only 27, clearly that is not good enough.
As such, it’s little surprise to see Kepa being linked with a move away.
To that end, Arrizabalaga reportedly has a number of LaLiga suitors all keen to bring him back to Spain.
However, recently it is Newcastle United who are reportedly most likely to make their move.
Eddie Howe’s side, with the huge financial backing of their Saudi owners, are preparing for a massive summer.
They plan to strengthen all areas of their side, with a new goalkeeper very much in their thinking.
Tuchel gives Newcastle hope
Now Tuchel has given Newcastle hope that Kepa Arrizabalaga will be allowed to leave this summer.
“We…
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