A new report from As reveals a subtle change in Real Madrid's goalkeeping position and how it affects Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa's future plans. Lunin's contract extension talks with Real Madrid are at an impasse and Kepa's dream of joining the club depends entirely on Lunin's final decision.
For his part, Lunin made it clear that he wanted more playing time as a condition for his contract extension. However, Real Madrid responded frankly that with Courtois in great form, it would be unrealistic to promise him regular playing time other than in cup games, which could be misleading for Lunin. Real Madrid believe that while the opportunity to play exists, there is no guarantee of consistency and they have been transparent about it. The ball is now squarely in Luening's court, and he will need to choose between staying at Real Madrid and finding a new challenge, a decision that has yet to be finalized.
Meanwhile, Lunin's silence has indirectly affected Kepa's situation. Kepa has been training on his own for weeks now, showing his desire to join Real Madrid. His contract with Chelsea is set to expire in 2025, but both sides realize that this summer is the best time to part ways so that Chelsea can get some transfer fee out of him. Kepa has previously rejected lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and sees joining Real Madrid as his primary goal. However, whether his dream can be realized depends entirely on Lu Ning's decision: if Lu Ning chooses to extend his contract, Kepa will have to start Plan B and even reconsider the Saudi offer; while if Lu Ning leaves, Kepa is expected to realize his dream of joining Real Madrid and is willing to accept possible playing time limitations as a second goalkeeper.
In addition, the report also mentions that Lunin was deemed "not good enough" in the dressing room, and despite his high level of professionalism, it is clear that the previous situation has had an impact on his state of mind. This further complicates Lunin's contract extension negotiations and puts him under even more pressure to remain at Real Madrid.
