Chelsea are reportedly prepping themselves to lose Kepa Arrizabalaga over the summer.
According to the Guardian, the Blues believe bids will come in for their expensive goalkeeper following his fine form recently.
Why would Chelsea consider letting Kepa go?
Kepa has managed to salvage a career that looked destroyed upon the rocks at one point.
A Maurizio Sarri signing, who became the fall guy under Frank Lampard, the 27-year-old has since turned hero with Thomas Tuchel in charge.
“I’m very pleased with him since day one — and it’s getting better and better,” said Tuchel last month.
On four separate occasions already this season the Spaniard’s penalty expertise have risen to fame.
He made crucial saves in the UFEA Super shoot-out, in two rounds of the Carabao Cup, plus denied Plymouth Argyle a late equaliser last weekend from 12-yards.
But spot-kicks are not the only weapon in his armoury.
The Spain international kept Al Hilal at bay during Wednesday’s Club World Cup semi-final with two terrific stops from close and long-range.
His confidence has clearly improved, as he looks an admirable understudy for Edouard Mendy.
However, this improvement comes with a caveat.
Mendy a massive factor
After previously being viewed as an undesirable option, clubs will now be reconsidering their stance on Kepa.
The Guardian claim Chelsea expect to see offers coming in for their ‘keeper, especially from those stationed in Spain.
If a suitable suggestion comes in from a foreign suitor, particularly from his homeland, it might be difficult for Kepa to turn down.
This decision will be a lot easier if Mendy regains the main goalie gloves this Saturday.
Despite only returning from Africa Cup of Nations success the other day, the Senegalese champion could start in the Club World Cup final tomorrow against Palmeiras.
On paper, bringing back the first choice for such a grand and important occasion seems like the sensible call.
However, Kepa has given Tuchel no reason to drop him and deserves to prove himself on the biggest stage once again.
He will be missed if Chelsea sold him at the end of the term, that’s for sure.
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