Andriy Lunin and Kepa Arrizabalaga could be swapping clubs. The duo were playing together at Real Madrid. But, the Ukraine keeper could now be leaving Spain. As a result, Los Blancos want to make a permanent deal for Chelsea keeper. At the same time, the Blues want to buy the 25-year-old Madrid star boy. We may see a swap deal develop. Without a doubt, both clubs will be benefitting. On the one hand, the Blues will be getting hold of a young quality goalkeeper. At the same time, Real will get a solid #2 in the form of the Spaniard.
Real had a tough start to the season. First-choice keeper Courtois was injured for most of the time. The Chelsea man would step in for him. But, even he would pick up a knock. Andriy Lunin would then replace Kepa Arrizabalaga in the starting XI. From then on, the 25-year-old kept his place in the lineup. He was pretty good and solid at the back. Also, he was excellent in the Champions League. His heroics against Man City made him a real star. The Blues want to make the most of his good run of form. They plan to sign him and secure a move for him to London.
Andriy Lunin & Kepa Arrizabalaga: Doubtful future
The future of both Andriy Lunin and Kepa Arrizabalaga is in doubt. The Spaniard’s loan spell at Real has come to an end. At the same time, the Ukraine keeper could also be moving out. Los Blancos were keen to extend the 25-year-old. But, as per metro.co.uk, they can’t guarantee him first team football. So, he is keeping his options open and may move away. Fans won’t be liking his moving away. Even he was quite happy in Spain after his superb outings for Madrid.
Los Blancos chose to sign the Chelsea keeper to replace the injured Belgian. But, it would not work out for him. As per en.wikipedia.org, he made 20 appearances for them. But, he soon fell out of favor. Kepa Arrizabalaga ended up losing his place to Andriy Lunin. Real had offered a contract extension to the 25-year-old in March. But, he is yet to sign the deal. At the same time, Los Blancos plan to sell him if he fails to sign a new deal. As a result, we may see him moving to the Premier League. Arsenal are also one of the clubs keeping an eye on him.
What happens next?
Real want €30 million for the Ukranian. Chelsea are not willing to pay that much. Kepa Arrizabalaga is waiting to see if Andriy Lunin leaves. The Spain goalkeeper is happy at Madrid. In fact, he is ready to stay even if he has to take a pay cut. Without a doubt, he is also a top player in his position. His penalty saving skills are great. He could be a solid #2 choice for Madrid. At the same time, he doesn’t lack experience. As per transfermarkt.co.in, he has 347 appearances at the club level. Meanwhile, he has managed to keep 121 clean sheets.
The situation is very different for the Blues. They could be ok with Kepa Arrizabalaga leaving and Andriy Lunin not joining. They already signed two goalies last season. Sanchez and Petrovic joined the Stamford Bridge last season. Now, they are also moving for Filip Jorgensen. All in all, they have up to 6 goalkeepers already with them. Signing the Ukranian seems unnecessary on paper. They will have to make room for him, if they plan to still sign him. At the same time, play time of other players may be compromised.
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