Real Madrid will need to make a number of signings in the future. And while they have been mostly been linked with outfield players over the past several weeks, especially centre-backs and forwards, it looks like the possibility of signing another goalkeeper cannot be ruled out either. Especially considering the uncertain situation of one player.
When Thibaut Courtois suffered an ACL injury before the season even started, the club made the bold decision to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan from Chelsea. Many eyebrows were raised as his stint in London had not been the most successful following a world-record €80 million move from Athletic Bilbao.
Kepa did come in and prove a lot of doubters wrong with a solid run of performances. But an injury, albeit a short-term one, appears to have had a significant effect on his season and future.
With Kepa out injured, Andriy Lunin came into the starting XI and got a run of games. Most fans feel he did even better than the Spaniard. And now, there is a real competition for the first-team gloves, as the Chelsea loanee is no longer an undisputed starter.
Real Madrid player looks likely to leave next summer
As reported by AS, Real Madrid initially did not rule out trying to keep Kepa but he is now having a hard time unseating Lunin. Under current conditions, paying a transfer fee for him is not contemplated and Chelsea are not going to part ways with him for nothing.
It feels like leaving Real Madrid at the end of his loan deal is the most likely route for Kepa. He will still have a year left on his Chelsea contract come next summer.
Of course, things could change quickly, if Kepa is able to regain his starting place in the team. In that scenario, the possibility of Real Madrid signing him could be back on the table.