Transfer Report: Kepa faces Chelsea exit to Bayern Munich

Chelsea could be set to lose its no. 1 in Kepa Arrizabalaga, with Bayern Munich reportedly looking to negotiate with the Blues for the Spanish talent.

This move comes as the Bundesliga champions urgently seek a new goalkeeper, given the recent departure of Yann Sommer to Inter Milan.

Furthermore, the absence of Manuel Neuer, who suffered a leg fracture during a skiing incident last December, has further accentuated the need for a reliable shot-stopper.

Bayern Munich prior to Arsenal gaining the signature of David Raya, had exploited the idea of signing the Brentford goalie this summer.

Mikel Arteta’s side sealing a £30 million deal for Raya on Tuesday, canceled the option, prompting Bayern to explore alternative options.

According to reports from Sport1, Bayern Munich has commenced preliminary talks with Chelsea regarding a potential deal for Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Interestingly, these discussions have been prompted by a personal recommendation from Thomas Tuchel, Kepa’s former manager at Chelsea.

It however comes as a surprise, considering during Tuchel’s tenure, Kepa faced a relegation from his position as Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper, as the German coach favored Edouard Mendy for the role.

With Mendy’s recent move to the Saudi Pro League, Kepa’s anticipated appearance in Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Liverpool this Sunday has gained a boost.

That said, Kepa’s long standing position as No. 1 for Mauricio Pochettino faces a test with the signing of Robert Sanchez from Brighton and Hove Albion for £25 million last week.

Kepa has a history of being the world’s record goalkeeper signing at a fee of £71.6 million from Athletic Bilbao.

The Spaniard is currently on a £190,000 weekly wage with the Blues.