Newcastle United would reportedly only ask to loan reported target Kepa Arrizabalaga this summer, rather than submit an offer to buy.
According to the Daily Mail, the Blues’ back-up stopper is just one of several names on the Magpies’ radar going into the summer window.
Manchester United’s Dean Henderson is of interest. As are Sam Johnstone and Bernd Leno.
It is stated within the report that Chelsea would like to recoup as much of their initial £71.6 million outlay as possible in the next window.
But the chances of Newcastle offering a transfer fee look slim.
Apparently, the Magpies would only ask to loan Kepa in rather than make an offer to buy.
Presumably, there would be a loan fee. But that might not be something of interest to Chelsea.
Of course, Kepa has endured a pretty tough time in English football so far.
He struggled in his first season and made several errors for the Blues and ahead of his second season, the club went out and bought Edouard Mendy, who has been nothing short of brilliant.
Kepa now has a bit-part role at Stamford Bridge, and it is no surprise he’s being linked with an exit.
But Kepa won’t be able to go anywhere this summer until the club is no longer under sanctions.
A loan for Kepa Arrizabalaga would be a sensible move by Newcastle
If Newcastle officials decided Kepa was someone they wanted to bring, a loan move would be wise.
Realistically, Henderson or Leno would be better options.
But it may be felt that the £195,000-a-week Kepa (Mirror) could enjoy a new lease of life at St. James’ Park.
But the club should not be looking to buy Kepa (if Chelsea were allowed to sell this summer).
And if Chelsea aren’t open to loaning the Spaniard out, then Newcastle should definitely turn their attention elsewhere.
Unfortunately his form just hasn’t been convincing and he doesn’t warrant what would be quite a big and risky outlay.
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