Real Madrid reignite interest in Kepa Arrizabalaga transfer

Real Madrid have re-established their interest in Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga ahead of the summer transfer window, a report in Spain states.

While Thibaut Courtois remains Madrid’s undisputed starting goalkeeper, there are significant doubts over the depth behind him, with Ukraine international Andriy Lunin regularly tipped to leave over his lack of minutes.

Lunin did sign a new contract last year but Spanish publication AS report that was largely to ensure he did not walk away on a free transfer, adding that Madrid are prepared to listen to reasonable proposals.

Should Lunin end up leaving, Madrid would reportedly turn their attention to Kepa, who impressed behind the scenes during his loan at the Santiago Bernabeu last season when he helped cover for a long-term injury to Courtois.

Madrid know Kepa will be available this summer, with Chelsea desperate to finally offload the 30-year-old permanently, and are confident they would face few issues trying to get a deal over the line.

The main problem for Madrid could be rival interest from Bournemouth. Kepa is enjoying his loan with the Cherries this season and has impressed enough as the regular starter to convince Bournemouth to pursue a permanent deal in the summer.

Kepa would likely remain Bournemouth’s starter if he joined permanently, whereas a switch to Madrid would see the world’s most expensive goalkeeper operate as a backup to Courtois, the man he was signed to replace at Chelsea back in 2018.

Madrid’s interest will hinge on Lunin, who is not thought to be actively looking for a move, although any offers of regular minutes will be considered after spending the past five years operating as cover for Courtois.

Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with Lunin in the past, while Manchester United have been touted as suitors amid suggestions they could look to move on from Andre Onana.