The 2023/24 campaign has not even started yet and Real Madrid are already in major trouble with injuries. Thibaut Courtois, who has arguably been the best goalkeeper on the planet over the past few years, has picked up a potentially season-ending injury. The Belgian goalkeeper has torn his ACL. The kind of injury takes around six to nine months to heal, potentially even longer.
So, Real Madrid need to bring in a replacement for Courtois. They have Andriy Lunin as his cover, but the 24-year-old’s recent performances have left a lot to be desired
However, world-class goalkeepers are hard to find as clubs are never keen to part ways with them. But it looks like Real Madrid have set their eyes on the Chelsea number one.
As tweeted out by Nizaar Kinsella, Real Madrid are now weighing up a loan-to-buy approach for Kepa Arrizabalaga. Bayern Munich want him as well.
Real Madrid eyeing £72 million Chelsea player
Arrizabalaga was signed by Chelsea in the summer of 2018, incidentally to replace Courtois. He has had an up-and-down time in London since then.
Arrizabalaga has had his moments of brilliance. But then, he has also come under heavy criticism. And the Spanish international spent a large chunk of time sitting on the bench at Chelsea, while Edouard Mendy was at the club. Despite all of this, the Spaniard is drawing the interest of some of the biggest teams in Europe.
Chelsea might be open to Arrizabalaga’s exit this summer, having recently signed Robert Sanchez from Brighton & Hove Albion just days ago. Bayern Munich are also looking to sign the 28-year-old.
Arrizabalaga’s game might be more suited to La Liga than the Premier League. His weaknesses are quite clear. He struggles with strikes from long distance, crossing and some have questioned his positioning as well. On the other hand, the Spaniard is excellent when it comes to his reflexes and shot-stopping. His attitude must be commended as well. Even while he was sitting on the bench for Chelsea, there were no rumours of him causing trouble behind the scenes.