Real Madrid tell Athletic Bilbao they want to sign Kepa this winter

Real Madrid told Athletic Bilbao that they want to sign goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga this winter instead of waiting until next summer, when he will become a free agent after his current deal expires. Basque TV ETB reported the news and added that Bilbao are not willing to sell the player.

If this is the case, Madrid will need to trigger the €20 million release clause on Kepa’s contract with Athletic, a move which could be quite controversial given that the goalkeeper would come for free if Los Blancos decide to wait a few months and keep trusting Keylor Navas.

One way or another, Kepa might not be the player Madrid need to salvage the season. However, he is still 23 years old and his signing would be a good move as Madrid might need to upgrade their goalkeepers fairly soon. Los Blancos will need to make a decision about Kepa before the end of January.