Chelsea and Real Madrid are reportedly in negotiations for a swap deal involving goalkeepers Andriy Lunin and Kepa Arrizabalaga. Lunin, who served as Real’s number one for most of the 2023-24 season, lost his place in the side following Thibaut Courtois’ return from injury. Despite being close to signing a long-term deal with Real, Lunin is considering a move due to the lack of guarantees over first-team football. Real is looking to bring in Kepa as Courtois’ understudy if Lunin departs.
Chelsea has been considering a move for Lunin for several weeks but is unwilling to meet Real’s €30 million asking price. As an alternative, a swap deal is being discussed, which would see Lunin join Chelsea and Kepa return to Spain permanently. Real is also looking for a fee as part of the deal, considering Lunin’s value after an excellent campaign in goal last season. The two clubs are still in talks to determine the exact fee.
Kepa, on the other hand, is said to be desperate to return to Madrid, even if it means taking a pay cut. Chelsea signed two goalkeepers last summer, Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic, with the latter becoming the first choice under Mauricio Pochettino midway through last season. However, there are concerns over Petrovic’s suitability for Enzo Maresca’s style of play, and he could be sold this summer. Petrovic was left out of the Chelsea squad for their pre-season tour due to a minor injury.
In addition to the potential swap deal with Real Madrid, Chelsea has reportedly made a £17 million bid to sign Filip Jorgenson from Villarreal. The 22-year-old midfielder is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. These developments highlight Chelsea’s efforts to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season and address any concerns regarding their goalkeeping options and midfield depth.
Overall, the negotiations between Chelsea and Real Madrid for a swap deal involving Lunin and Kepa demonstrate the complexities and dynamics of player transfers in the football world. Clubs must consider various factors such as playing time guarantees, player values, and squad suitability when engaging in such deals. These negotiations also highlight the ambition of both Chelsea and Real Madrid to secure the best possible options for their respective squads.