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Maurizio Sarri contacts Chelsea over January move for goalkeeper

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Lazio are keen to sign a new goalkeeper in the upcoming transfer window, contacting Chelsea over a move for Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Since the arrival of Edouard Mendy in September 2020, Kepa Arrizabalaga has lost his regular spot in the Chelsea lineup. The Spaniard spends most of the games on the bench, with Mendy’s incredible form preventing him from regaining his place.

According to Il Messaggero, Lazio are eyeing a move for Kepa. The Italian outlet claims Lazio boss Maurizio Sarri has already contacted Chelsea over a potential transfer for the Spaniard. 

With the World Cup just over a year away, the guarantee of regular game time might appeal to Kepa. However, it is unclear whether the Chelsea keeper would want to continue his career in Italy.

With Arrizabalaga’s current Chelsea contract running until 2025, the English side are under no pressure to sell him. The Blues will most likely push for a sizeable fee in case of a transfer.

Thomas Tuchel has repeatedly praised Kepa for his mentality while insisting he is still an important member of his squad.

 “Kepa is always pushing that’s the good thing,” Tuchel said on Friday.

“He really is an example of sportsmanship, I have nothing but praise for him.

“He did everything that he is able to do to produce a performance like this, everyday he is in unbelievable spirit.

“If nothing crazy happens tonight at the hotel the Edouard Mendy starts tomorrow nothing has changed at the moment from there.”

Chelsea will face Leeds United in a Premier League game on Saturday. The Blues slipped to third place in the Premier League last weekend after leading the table for several weeks.

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