“I think it is a matter of” – Bournemouth boss speaks on signing Kepa Arrizabalaga permanently

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has spoken on the future of Kepa Arrizabalaga and believes both sides are very happy with his loan spell.

The Blues are once again facing a critical summer with the club looking to sign a striker, centre back and right footed attacker to strengthen Enzo Maresca’s squad.

This is arguably Chelsea’s most important window under the Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital ownership, and they could look to fund their business by selling as many as seven or eight players.

Iraola on Kepa future

Whilst incomings are a priority, outgoings are just as important with Chelsea needing to sort out the futures of a number of the squad.

Kepa falls into that category and the Spaniard has had a successful season on loan at Bournemouth after joining last summer.

The 30-year-old has impressed for the Cherries and he’s kept eight clean sheets in 34 appearances in all competitions.

Kepa has put in some impressive performances on the south coast. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

There’s said to be a £5m buy clause and Bournemouth are thought to want to sign Kepa on a permanent basis this summer.

Kepa’s future will decided at the end of the season but Iraola has spoken on the goalkeeper’s future and believes it’s just a matter of negotiating with the player and Chelsea.

“I think it is a matter of negotiating with Kepa himself and with Chelsea,” he said as cited on X.com

“I think both sides are very happy with his loan spell. I think he has performed really well, and his character and experience have been very valuable for us.

“In a really young team, to have someone with his experience of fighting regularly for titles has been really lovely.”

Chelsea interested in Emi Martinez

Whilst the Blues are yet to decide if they will enter the market for a new keeper , that hasn’t stopped them being linked with a host of names.

Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel is reportedly a name of interest, with Dortmund said to want up to €60m for the 27-year-old.

Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez is the latest name linked, and Chelsea are said to have made an approach for the World Cup winner, with Villa reportedly setting their asking price at £40m.