In a recent report, AS claimed that Real Madrid are eyeing a swap deal for Chelsea custodian Kepa Arrizabalaga this summer. It has been claimed that Los Blancos are eager to get a swap deal done for the Spanish keeper and are willing to send Andriy Lunin in the other direction.
Arrizabalaga’s Impressive Loan Spell At The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Arrizabalaga had a decent loan spell at the Madrid club last season when he managed to put in a handful of impressive displays for them in La Liga. The Spanish talent participated in 20 matches for Real Madrid in the previous campaign, conceding 18 goals and earning nine clean sheets on all fronts.
The 29-year-old proved his worth at times by averaging 0.6 clearances and 3.4 long balls per game in La Liga. He was even accurate when distributing possession from the back, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 82.5% in league football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at his parent club Chelsea will expire next summer which could give Real Madrid a chance to re-sign him this off-season.
Real Madrid Are Eyeing A Swap Deal For Arrizabalaga: Good Move For Everyone Involved?
Arrizabalaga can be a safe pair of hands in between the sticks when he is playing well on the field. He can make a few top saves at the back and is a good handler of the ball. The Spaniard did well to serve as an important member of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad last season. He has what it takes to serve as an ideal understudy to Thibaut Courtois at the Madrid club.
Thus, it makes sense for Real Madrid to go all out to bring Arrizabalaga to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium before the end of this summer transfer period as he could help them compete for even more trophies over the next few years.
At 29, Arrizabalaga is still playing in his prime and could help Los Blancos cope with fixture congestion better in the future. Therefore, Ancelotti should consider re-signing him even if he has to send Andriy Lunin in the other direction. With all things considered, Real Madrid would be wise to arrange a swap deal involving the two keepers as it will be a good move for everyone involved.
