Craig Burley says Frank Lampard wants Kepa Arrizabalaga gone
According to ESPN FC (h/t Express), former Chelsea star Craig Burley has revealed that Blues boss Frank Lampard has told the board that he wants Kepa Arrizabalaga gone in the summer.
The world’s most expensive goalkeeper, Kepa has flattered to deceive at Stamford Bridge. This has seen him get benched by Lampard, while a bust-up with the Spaniard was also being mooted.
Chelsea are billed to have a busy transfer window. Having already agreed on the transfer of Ajax Amsterdam star Hakim Ziyech, the Blues are also working on a number of other deals.
It isn’t just limited to incomings, with Kepa’s future currently on the line. According to Burley, Chelsea are set to command a significant amount for the player they paid £72million for just over two years ago.
“My understanding is that Lampard told the board he wanted Kepa out, for whatever reason.”
Burley has named a number of possibilities regarding the differences between the keeper and the manager, including performances and attitude.
He has, however, added that the Blues will only sell Kepa if they stand to make a significant chunk of money from it.
With the current financial instability brought about by the coronavirus shutdown, it looks unlikely that the club can recoup anything close to what they paid for the player.
Burley believes such a situation could lead to friction between the manager and the board.
“There’s a battle of wills there, before the shutdown, between manager and board.”
Lampard brought Kepa back into the line-up following a set of fine performances in early March. The fact that he did that in spite of his opinion on Kepa showcases that the boss will do what is best for the team even if it means he has to go back on his decision.
More Chelsea News
- Lampard to make a move for Bayern Munich defender David Alaba
- Chelsea target Andre Onana is keen to leave Ajax Amsterdam
- Chelsea to prioritize signing a striker over Philippe Coutinho
If Kepa is sold, Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana is one of the players tipped to replace him.
The Cameroonian international has revealed that he wants to move on in the summer and take a step up in his career.