
A Stamford Bridge Too Far
·31 July 2021
Not Zouma – 26-year-old Chelsea star offered to La Liga giants after latest development

In partnership with
Yahoo sportsA Stamford Bridge Too Far
·31 July 2021
According to transfer news from Spanish publication El Gol Digital (h/t football.london), Chelsea have offered La Liga outfit Valencia an opportunity to sign goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan. This move comes after the Blues signed Marcus Bettinelli on a free transfer.
The 29-year-old arrived on a Bosman move earlier this week after his contract with Fulham ran out at the end of the season. While it has been claimed that he would be a replacement for third-choice goalkeeper Willy Caballero who was released by Chelsea, the aforementioned report hints otherwise.
Indeed, Thomas Tuchel & co. are now said to considering loaning Kepa out for the season and have offered Valencia a shot at signing him for the 2021/22 campaign.
Kepa Arrizabalaga in action for Chelsea. (GETTY Images)
The 26-year-old arrived at Chelsea three years ago on a world-record transfer fee for a goalkeeper from La Liga side Athletic Bilbao. And while the Spaniard has won a UEFA Europa League and the UEFA Champions League titles in his time at the club, it has been anything but smooth-sailing.
From his infamous disagreement with Maurizio Sarri in his first season to a series of high-profile errors under Frank Lampard which resulted in his axing, the Spaniard has had it difficult. And, he was finally demoted to No. 2 last season upon the arrival of Edouard Mendy.
With the Senegalese international enjoying a top debut season, there is no way Kepa stands the chance of usurping the No. 1 spot at Chelsea. And, in Bettinelli, the Blues also have a goalkeeper who still has plenty left to offer and is experienced enough in English football to serve as the deputy.
Chelsea signed Marcus Bettinelli on a free transfer (Twitter/ChelseaFC)
Valencia are in the need of a new goalkeeper amid doubts over the future of Jasper Cillessen. Furthermore, Los Che’s finances are in a disarray, so a loan move would suit them. As for Chelsea, sending Kepa out makes sense as they could stand a chance of selling him off next summer should he enjoy a solid season in his homeland.