Kepa Arrizabalaga has finally addressed the uncertainty surrounding his Chelsea future, revealing that key talks with the Blues are set to take place in the coming weeks.
“We’ll Decide Soon” – Kepa Breaks Silence on Chelsea Future Amid Bournemouth Loan
Currently on loan at Bournemouth, the world’s most expensive goalkeeper has made 24 Premier League appearances this season, keeping five clean sheets for the Cherries.
While Kepa initially impressed under Andoni Iraola and helped Bournemouth flirt with a European push, a recent dip in form has seen them slip to 10th in the table after a six-game winless streak.
Despite conceding multiple goals in several recent outings — including two in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with West Ham — the 30-year-old remains a target for Bournemouth.
However, there is no buy clause in his loan deal, meaning any permanent move would require fresh negotiations.
Speaking to The Mirror after the West Ham clash, Kepa said,
“Obviously what I can say is that I’m really happy and I’m enjoying my playing time here. I think I’m showing that and I’m feeling well on the pitch.
It’s not the time to think about the future, we’re going to take the decision, we’re in touch with everybody and now I’m under contract with Chelsea.
We have some conversations to have, they will happen in the next few weeks and then we’ll decide.”
With only a year left on his Chelsea contract, this summer may be the club’s final opportunity to recoup a portion of the £72 million they spent on him in 2018.
Kepa has recorded 59 clean sheets in 163 matches for the Blues, yet his tenure has been underwhelming in the eyes of many.
Chelsea’s goalkeeper situation remains murky, with current No. 1 Robert Sanchez struggling and backup Filip Jorgensen failing to inspire confidence.
While there is a slim chance new boss Enzo Maresca could reassess Kepa in pre-season, a sale appears the most likely outcome.
The Blues are reportedly eyeing replacements, including Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel and a potential bargain signing from Serie A, as they aim to rebuild their backline once again this summer.
