Will Kepa Arrizabalaga return to Chelsea after Real Madrid loan deal expires?

The Spanish goalkeeper has become Real Madrid’s No.1 goalkeeper since completing a summer move to Santiago Bernabeu.

Kepa Arrizabalaga was already linked with a move away from Chelsea when Thibaut Courtois’ ACL injury opened up a space for him in Real Madrid’s squad.

The Blancos signed Kepa on a one-year loan deal, paying a reported loan fee of €1million to Chelsea. At Santiago Bernabeu, the Spanish star has enjoyed an impressive run of form so far this season, keeping six clean sheets in 11 La Liga appearances.

However, it seems that Real Madrid are not looking to secure Kepa’s services on a permanent basis.

According to AS, Kepa will be on his way back to London at the end of the season as Real Madrid still consider Courtois as their No.1 goalkeeper. The Blancos are reportedly unsure of Kepa’s qualities in aerial challenges and his inside-the-box leadership.

After suffering an abductor injury in early November, Kepa spent a few weeks on the sidelines, with Andriy Lunin standing between Real Madrid’s posts in the weeks before the winter break. Lunin’s solid performances give Real Madrid another reason to avoid signing Kepa on a permanent deal, as they are eager to avoid negotiating a transfer fee with Chelsea for the goalkeeper.

Back at Chelsea, Kepa faces competition from Robert Sanchez for the No.1 spot. The 26-year-old has shown flashes of brilliance in his first months at the club, but the Blues’ defensive struggles have seen him come under pressure in recent weeks.