Maurizio Sarri wants Lazio to sign Chelsea star Kepa Arrizabalaga on a season-long loan
According to the Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport (h/t The Sun), Maurizio Sarri has demanded Lazio to secure the signature of Chelsea star Kepa Arrizabalaga on a season-long loan move in the summer transfer window. The latter continues to feature behind Edouard Mendy in the Stamford Bridge pecking order.
Lepa has been subjected to interest from the Serie A club for most of this season. Despite the rumour, a move did not come to fruition in the January transfer window. Sarri continues to keep tabs on the goalkeeper in an attempt to bring him to Italy next summer.
Lazio have been inconsistent this season and could do with a few additions to their squad in the summer. It is unknown whether the Bleus will entertain an offer for Kepa and if the player himself will be interested in seeking a fresh challenge elsewhere.
Chelsea to let Kepa leave?
Kepa has done well for us since Thomas Tuchel took over the managerial role at Stamford Bridge. The boss seems to have helped the keeper regain his old form from his days at Athletic Bilbao. After all, times looked dire for the 27-year-old under Frank Lampard after losing the starting spot to Mendy.
The African Cup of Nations winner has been sensational for us and rightfully deserves the spot ahead of Kepa. Hence, it would probably be best for us to move out the latter given that the wages he earns are disproportionate to his standing as the reserve keeper.
Kepa has a salary package of £150,000-a-week, which is too expensive for someone who often warms the bench. One could say that we should keep him since we have two great options in that position. However, it would be best to part ways with him and sign a young understudy who will offer long term protection to us.
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However, the interest from Le Aquile is only for a season-long loan move which does not help us to move out the 27-year-old permanently. Moreover, they may not even take over his full wages as it could be a problem for them. As such, the prospect of a temporary transfer is not convincing enough in its present format.
The season is still long, and we could still receive more approaches from elsewhere for the former Athletic Club man. Hence, let’s wait and see how his situation would pan out in the coming months ahead of the summer transfer window.
