Kepa Arrizabalaga ‘could make unlikely return to Chelsea this summer with goalkeeper set for talks with new manager Enzo Maresca’

Kepa Arrizabalaga will reportedly talk to new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca before a decision is made on his future.

Arrizabalaga was loaned out to Real Madrid on a season-long loan last summer after Los Blancos regular goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois tore his cruciate ligament, ruling him out for most of the season.

The stopper failed to make much of an impression at the Bernabeu and dropped to third choice behind Andriy Lunin as the season progressed.

Kepa has just one year left on the deal he signed with the Blues, when they made him the most expensive goalkeeper of all time with a transfer fee of £72 million in 2018.

The sun report that Madrid are open to keeping him, but only with another 12-month loan or a free transfer.

Maresca’s arrival at Stamford Bridge has also opened the door for a possible return, but the Spaniard would only do so with guarantees of playing time.

This requires constructive discussions when Kepa returns from holiday later this month.

A source told The Sun: ‘The uncertainty over Chelsea’s next manager has put everything on hold for a few weeks.

‘Kepa also wanted to make the most of winning LaLiga, the Spanish Super Cup and of course the Champions League.

The arrival of new manager Enzo Maresca could change things for Arrizabalaga

‘He will have to talk to Maresca and see what the future brings. He would be happy in Madrid or London. If Lunin leaves Madrid it could make things easier for everyone.”

Kepa has now won the Champions League twice and was also part of Chelsea’s triumphant 2021 side that defeated Manchester City in Porto.