Loaned by Chelsea to Real Madrid for the 2023/2024 season, Kepa didn’t quite make a decisive impact in the conquest of Madrid’s 15th Champions League title.
In the latter part of the season, the Spanish goalkeeper only featured in a few matches, playing second fiddle to Lunin, the undisputed starter in goal for the Merengues since Thibaut Courtois’ injury.
However, Kepa still contributed in the early stages when he had to step in for the injured Belgian international at a crucial moment. Despite his mixed role, Kepa could still be one of the main beneficiaries of Real Madrid’s triumph.
Several media outlets claim that a clause in his loan would require the Merengues to pay €8 million to Chelsea, his parent club, upon Madrid’s Champions League victory. This information has not been officially confirmed yet but seems plausible.
It’s worth recalling that Real Madrid had to fulfill a similar clause in the transfer of Eden Hazard, who is no longer under contract with the club. So, after Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid must dig into their pockets for Kepa, which is unfortunate news!
An uncertain return to Chelsea
Regardless, this financial windfall probably won’t change Kepa’s short-term future. Indeed, the Spanish goalkeeper is expected to return to Chelsea at the end of the season as his loan spell with Real Madrid concludes.
But Kepa’s future at the Blues seems highly uncertain. Several media reports suggest that the London club doesn’t plan to include him in their plans for next season, leaving Kepa to find a new destination.
It’s in this context that several La Liga clubs have reportedly shown interest in signing Kepa this summer. However, the goalkeeper’s wage demands and transfer fee still pose a problem.
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