Bournemouth in talks to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan
AFC Bournemouth are pursuing a deal to bring Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea on loan for the 2024/25 season, according to The Athletic.
Bournemouth have Neto and Mark Travers on their books, but manager Andoni Iraola wants to add another goalkeeper to the ranks.
The former Rayo Vallecano coach had inexplicably dropped Neto towards the end of last season, and Travers impressed in his absence.
However, the latter could be on his way out of the club this summer, with several Championship sides showing interest in his services.
The Cherries have identified Arrizabalaga as their top target to bolster their goalkeeping department and are in talks with Chelsea and the player. While other clubs have also shown interest in the 29-year-old, Bournemouth are confident of securing his signature.
The Spanish goalkeeper has seen his playing time reduced at Stamford Bridge and is keen on a move to secure regular first-team football.
Arrizabalaga joined the Blues from Athletic Bilbao in 2018 for a world-record fee after they missed out on Alisson Becker to Liverpool. The Spaniard played an influential role as they won the Europa League in his first season.
However, his performances waned over time. His shot-stopping ability came under scrutiny, and his heralded ball-playing skills seemed to disappear.
Chelsea have moved on from the Spain international, signing Robert Sanchez, Djordje Petrovic, and Filip Jorgensen, who are all ahead of him in the pecking order.
The goalkeeper spent last season on loan at Real Madrid, making 20 appearances. Despite being a regular starter initially, he was eventually replaced by Andriy Lunin towards the end of the campaign.
Arrizabalaga is now back at Chelsea, and the club is looking to move him and his hefty wages off their books. Bournemouth are keen suitors.
However, Arrizabalaga’s contract with Chelsea will expire in 2025, meaning he would need to agree to an extension before a loan move can be finalised.
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