Kepa Arrizabalaga hopes to keep performing at the highest level for Real Madrid after he got asked about joining the club permanently.
Kepa Arrizabalaga got his lifeline out of Chelsea in the summer and a big chance in his career to play for Real Madrid. The injury to Thibaut Courtois opened up space at the Santiago Bernabeu for a new goalkeeper, and the Spaniard readily joined them on a loan deal.
He has performed well since his move there, as he has secretly hoped to make his move permanent. Yet, the 29-year-old Chelsea star remains unfazed about the future and ready to bide his time at the club. He hopes to keep performing at the highest levels, and some previous reports also stated he was ready to lower his salary to make the move permanent.
In his comments on 90min, Kepa reflected on the positive start to life and Real Madrid’s season and hoped for a long stay at the club if the conditions are right. Despite all that, he did not say with certainty that a permanent move would happen next summer.
Kepa said, “I’d say it has been a very positive two months. “We’ve started the season well, and it’s a long season, but we’re on the right path. So, I’d say it has been a positive start, but I know any grade for my performances this season will come at the end of the campaign.
“I said it then and I still hope to stay. But, we haven’t spoken about that or negotiated anything yet. It’s only October and we’re focused on the busy schedule.”
The transfer to Real Madrid may have brought back old memories for Kepa. The Capital Giants held an interest in his services during his time at Athletic Club but could not afford him once he signed a new deal at the club. Since his record-breaking move to Chelsea, he has not settled at the club.
Chelsea are willing to sell him next summer, but all eyes will be on his price tag. Real Madrid would not consider him their undisputed first choice once Courtois returns to fitness. That may cast a shadow on a permanent move.
Moreover, Real Madrid are reportedly willing to spend €10 million and no more to sign Kepa from Chelsea. Such a deal won’t suit the Blues, but for the 29-year-old, he would want to play regularly wherever he plays next season or beyond.
