London, UK—Chelsea Football Club has extended the contract of Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga until June 2026, as announced on Thursday. In a simultaneous move, the club has agreed to send Kepa on loan to Bournemouth for the remainder of the season, according to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The loan deal, which sees Kepa linking up with Bournemouth’s Basque-born manager Andoni Iraola, does not include a buy option. However, Bournemouth will contribute to the goalkeeper’s salary during his stay.
Kepa, who spent the previous season on loan at Real Madrid, had reportedly aimed to secure a permanent transfer to the Spanish giants. Despite his efforts and a solid performance in Madrid, a permanent move did not materialize, leading to his return to the Premier League with Bournemouth.
This marks a new chapter in Kepa’s career, where he will have the opportunity to work under Iraola, a manager from his home region of Basque Country. The move is seen as a chance for the 29-year-old to gain more playing time and showcase his abilities in the competitive environment of the Premier League.
Kepa’s tenure at Chelsea has been marked by highs and lows since his record-breaking transfer in 2018. While he has shown moments of brilliance, his time at Stamford Bridge has also been marred by inconsistencies. The loan spell at Bournemouth could provide him with the stability needed to reignite his career.
With Chelsea securing his services until 2026, the club appears committed to keeping Kepa in their long-term plans, while also allowing him the opportunity to develop further through this loan arrangement.
As the new season unfolds, all eyes will be on how Kepa adapts to life at Bournemouth and whether he can regain the form that once made him the most expensive goalkeeper in the world.
