Chelsea have officially extended Kepa Arrizabalaga’s contract, ensuring the Spanish goalkeeper remains tied to the club until 2026. The Blues activated a clause in his deal before the January 31 deadline, preventing the 30-year-old from leaving Stamford Bridge on a free transfer at the end of the season, according to reports from Marca.

Kepa, who joined Bournemouth on loan last summer, had initially signed a one-year contract extension before his move, with his previous deal set to expire in 2025. However, the extension wasn’t automatic, requiring Chelsea to trigger the clause for the additional year to take effect.

While Kepa has reportedly outperformed Robert Sanchez this season, a return to Chelsea as the first-choice goalkeeper seems unlikely. The former Athletic Bilbao star’s future remains uncertain, and the extension may serve more to protect his market value than signal a long-term role at the club.

With the summer transfer window approaching, Chelsea now have greater flexibility in negotiating a potential sale, avoiding the risk of losing Kepa for nothing. Despite his improved performances, the Blues appear focused on other goalkeeping options, suggesting that Kepa’s time at Stamford Bridge may still be nearing its conclusion.