Chelsea set price-tag for Kepa amid Newcastle interest

Updated: July 25, 2022 at 8:20 pm GMT+1

Chelsea have reportedly set an asking price for Kepa Arrizabalaga amid interest from several clubs.

Kepa was signed by Chelsea in August of 2018 for a staggering £71m, making him the world’s most expensive goalkeeper.

However, the Spaniard's hefty price-tag was a lot to live up to, and after he struggled under Maurizio Sarri and then Frank Lampard, Chelsea opted to bring in Edouard Mendy, who has since firmly cemented his spot as the Blues’ no.1.

Now, though, with Mendy having spent a month away at the AFCON, and Kepa also afforded chances in cup matches, the Spanish international is beginning to look the kind of shot-stopper which Chelsea originally thought they were bringing in.

But will he ever be the Pensioners' no.1 again? Recent matches would suggest that this is unlikely to be the case, as Edouard Mendy has slotted straight back into Thomas Tuchel's XI after a period away.

Newcastle eyeing Kepa

So, what does the future hold for Kepa?

Well, Chelsea are very unlikely to get back the sum they paid for the Spaniard, not too surprising given that it stood as a record fee for a keeper.

But the Blues are seemingly open to parting with Kepa for the right price.

As per the Daily Star, it is understood that Chelsea are prepared to listen to any sensible offers of around the £50m mark for their no.2.

A loan deal featuring an obligation to buy might also be deemed acceptable in the right circumstances for the Londoners.

In terms of who is interested in the former Athletic Club man, the Star report that a number of La Liga clubs – including Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid – have been actively sniffing around.

Premier League outfit Newcastle United are also said to have an interest, and given their newfound wealth, perhaps would be willing to splash the £50m required to bring Kepa in.