What next for Kepa Arrizabalaga? Chelsea reject Saudi offer for forgotten man after failed Real Madrid loan

Arrizabalaga, aged 29, remains under contract with Chelsea until 2025. Last season, he was loaned to Real Madrid following a significant injury to their first-choice goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois. The Belgian, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during pre-season training, left a gap that Madrid hoped Arrizabalaga could fill effectively.

Initially, Kepa started as Madrid’s primary goalkeeper. However, midway through the 2023-24 season, head coach Carlo Ancelotti started favouring Andriy Lunin, limiting Kepa's appearances. This decision saw Arrizabalaga make only one start after January, significantly diminishing his impact at the club.

According to The Athletic, Al Ittihad have expressed interest in acquiring Arrizabalaga. Chelsea, however, declined their initial offer. Nonetheless, negotiations with the Saudi club are ongoing, and other potential suitors are also showing interest as Chelsea looks to facilitate a permanent move for the Spanish goalkeeper this summer.

Interestingly, Kepa’s former Chelsea teammate, N’Golo Kante, made a move to Al Ittihad last summer. The Saudi club's roster also includes high-profile players like former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho and ex-Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema. These transfers were part of the broader strategy following the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) takeover of four clubs, including Al Ittihad, last year.

Despite the ongoing talks regarding Arrizabalaga’s departure, Chelsea boasts a robust goalkeeping lineup. The squad includes Robert Sanchez and Dorde Petrovic as prominent first-team goalkeepers, alongside Marcus Bettinelli and Lucas Bergstrom. This depth provides Chelsea with multiple options between the posts, ensuring they are well-covered even if Kepa leaves the club.