Kepa Arrizabalaga discusses chances of joining Real Madrid permanently
- Real Madrid signed Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan from Chelsea in August
- Spain international brought in as cover for injured Thibaut Courtois
- Kepa has been asked about negotiations over permanent transfer
By Sean Walsh
Kepa Arrizabalaga has reiterated that he would like to join Real Madrid on a permanent transfer from Chelsea but admitted he is unsure if he will get his wish.
The Spain goalkeeper chose to leave the Blues over the summer after they purchased compatriot Robert Sanchez from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Kepa was the subject of interest from Bayern Munich, who are managed by ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel and were looking to bring in cover for the injured Manuel Neuer. But an ACL injury to Thibaut Courtois forced Real Madrid into the market for a new goalkeeper, and they won the race to bring in Kepa instead.
After signing for Real Madrid on an initial loan in August, Kepa admitted that he was hopeful the move would become permanent in the summer of 2024.
Prior to Tuesday's 2-1 win at Braga in the Champions League group stage, Kepa was asked about how he's settled in at the Santiago Bernabeu and if there's been any update on negotiations over a future transfer.
"I'd say it has been a very positive two months," Kepa began. "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 be given 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."
Real Madrid sit top of La Liga after taking 25 points from their opening 10 games, conceding seven goals so far domestically. Kepa has kept five clean sheets in all competitions for Los Blancos so far.
Carlo Ancelotti's side face their biggest test of the season so far when they travel to Barcelona in El Clasico on Saturday afternoon.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are yet to click into gear under Mauricio Pochettino this term. They sit 10th in the Premier League and most recently threw away a two-goal lead in a 2-2 draw with London rivals Arsenal.
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