Athletic Bilbao have officially confirmed the release clause of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has been triggered ahead of what looks an imminent transfer to Chelsea.
The Spanish shot-stopper has been strongly linked with the Blues by AS and others as a replacement for Real Madrid target Thibaut Courtois.
MORE: Video: Chelsea star expected in Madrid tomorrow in major transfer update
Although Athletic have not mentioned Chelsea in a statement on their website, this announcement coming when it has seems to all but confirm he’s on his way to Stamford Bridge.
As mentioned by the Telegraph, Chelsea meeting Kepa’s release clause means the 23-year-old will break the world record transfer fee for a goalkeeper, moving for £71.6million.
This is an exciting purchase for the Blues if everything can be finalised, with Kepa undoubtedly one of the most promising young ‘keepers in the game.
Kepa abona la cláusula de rescisión https://t.co/945I0Y8ILC #AthleticClub
— Athletic Club (@AthleticClub) August 8, 2018
For the short term he may not exactly be an upgrade on the world class Courtois, but he looks a solid long-term investment for the future for CFC.
Athletic’s official statement read:
On Wednesday August 8, 2018, at 12:02 hours, the Professional Football League has certified to our entity that the player Kepa Arrizabalaga has met the requirements for the valid unilateral termination of the work contract that linked him to Athletic Club.
The aforementioned certification indicates that the player has expressed his desire to terminate and unilaterally resolve the relationship that joined him since the 2004/05 season and that the amount of the compensation established in the contract has been deposited.
Athletic thanks the player for his contribution during the time he has remained in our Club.
![Loading ...]( "Loading ...")
Loading ...
Loading ...