“We don’t have a choice but to bring him back. Our current keepers aren’t giving us what we wanted.” – This is according to Chelsea Reach Verdict on a keeper from the UCL winning squad of 2021 Future as Robert Sanchez Continues to Struggle

Chelsea Keep Door Open for Kepa Arrizabalaga as Club Activates Loan Clause Amid Robert Sanchez’s Struggles

Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain, but he could still have a role at the club after they reportedly exercised a clause in his loan agreement with Bournemouth. According to Spanish outlet MARCA, the Blues triggered an option before the January 31 deadline to extend his contract, preventing him from becoming a free agent this summer.

The Spanish goalkeeper, who remains the most expensive shot-stopper in football history, last played for Chelsea under Frank Lampard’s interim tenure in 2023. Following a loan spell at Real Madrid, where he eventually lost his starting position to Andriy Lunin, Kepa moved to Bournemouth on another temporary deal in August.

Before joining the Cherries, he reportedly signed a one-year contract extension with Chelsea, keeping him tied to the club until June 2026. While this move could be a strategic attempt by Chelsea to secure a transfer fee for him in the future, it also raises the possibility of a Stamford Bridge return, especially given Robert Sanchez’s inconsistent performances.

Sanchez, who was signed as Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper, has endured a difficult season, with errors leading directly to five goals—the most by any Premier League player. In contrast, Kepa has only committed one such mistake this season and currently holds the highest save percentage in the league. The 29-year-old has conceded 21 goals in 17 appearances for Bournemouth, outperforming his expected goals conceded tally by three.

Chelsea explored signing Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel in the winter transfer window but ultimately opted to continue with Sanchez and backup Filip Jorgensen. The club will also welcome highly-rated 19-year-old Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders in June following his £17 million transfer.

Despite these reinforcements, Kepa’s improved form could see him return to Stamford Bridge next season as Chelsea reassess their goalkeeping options.