Chelsea suffer fresh blow hours to Liverpool with star flying out to Madrid for medical after deal is ‘agreed’

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga will miss the Premier League opener against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge later today after a deal was agreed with Real Madrid his loan signing.

The 28-year-old goalkeeper said yes to the Spanish giants the moment he was approached and will now spend the 2023/2024 season in Spain even though it remains unclear if an option for a permanent purchase will be added to the deal.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino had confirmed in his press conference that Kepa was in line to start against Liverpool but the latest development means he will now have to change plans.

He told reporters in his press conference ahead of the game: “Kepa is, [after] three, four weeks working with us, a little bit ahead of him. Like in all different players, it is a challenge for them to keep their place if they play on Sunday.”

The Blues are hoping for their first home win in eight matches when they host Jurgen Klopp’s men having failed to beat them in their last six meetings.

The last four meetings between Chelsea and Liverpool have all ended in draws but Mauricio Pochettino has won five of his last seven opening-day matches so the Blues fans will hope the new manager continues his strong record when it comes to opening-day matches.

Chelsea could hand debuts to summer signings such as Nicolas Jackson and Axel Disasi but Christopher Nkunku, who has joined from RB Leipzig, may be out until January with a knee injury.

Robert Sanchez who only signed for the club 10 days ago will also be handed his debut in a game that will set the tone of the season.