Serie A side Napoli are considering a move for Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga this summer, with the Blues set to sign Gabriel Slonina, according to reports.
This comes as the Spaniard’s future is in doubt, with Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel confirming last season that his future depends on whether the goalkeeper wants to play regular first team football.
“It depends what he wants and what his plans are,” Tuchel said over whether or not Kepa would remain at Chelsea next season.
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“I know that we are very privileged to have Edou and Kepa in our squad but I also know for sure that Kepa is not happy about the situation because he deserved to play more and he can be a very strong number one.
"He arrived as a number one so the situation is not easy.
He has been a fantastic team player since day one and never let anybody down.
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“We did not have a conversation yet but I know that the goalkeeper coaches have these conversations at the moment and then we will take our time to speak with him and reflect on what’s best and what the possibilities are.
"As a coach, of course I’m super happy to have both strong goalkeepers so let’s see.”
It was previously reported that Ligue 1 side OGC Nice were interested in bringing Kepa to France, however they now look set to sign Yann Sommer.
There is still interest in the 27-year-old, with The Daily Mail reporting that Napoli wish to sign Kepa.
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The report states that the Serie A side could look to bring Kepa in on loan this summer.
These rumours have been added to by Nizaar Kinsella of The Evening Standard, who report that the Italians are weighing up a bid for the Chelsea back-up keeper.
However, things are said to be complicated due to Kepa’s £190,000-a-week wages. Furthermore, Chelsea would have to sign a replacement if Kepa is to leave.
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The Blues are said to be ‘really close’ to signing Slonina from Chicago Fire, however the young shot-stopper will likely remain on loan in the MLS if he is to sign for Chelsea.
Slonina will make a final decision within the next week regarding a potential switch to Chelsea.
With Marcus Bettinelli the option behind Kepa in Chelsea’s team, the Blues would likely look to bring in another number two to provide cover for Edouard Mendy.
It remains to be seen as to what the future holds for the Spaniard, but with the World Cup coming up at the end of the year, first team football is the only way to earn his place in Luis Enrique’s squad.
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Napoli, Gabriel Slonina, Transfers, Football, Premier League
Nick Emms