Chelsea complete signing of Kepa as Courtois goes to Real

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Athletic Bilbao.

The Spain international, 23, has signed a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge and joins the Blues for £71m – a world record fee for a keeper.

He has been signed to replace Thibaut Courtois, who is joining Real Madrid in a deal that will see Mateo Kovacic move to Chelsea on a season-long loan.

Courtois is moving for around £35m and Croatia midfielder Kovacic will be coming the other way.

A statement issued by Chelsea on Wednesday evening read: “Chelsea and Real Madrid have tonight agreed terms for the permanent transfer of Thibaut Courtois subject to the agreement of personal terms and passing a medical.

“Subject to the completion of the deal Mateo Kovacic will join the Blues on a season-long loan.”

Real, meanwhile, confirmed Courtois will undergo a medical on Thursday morning before signing a six-year deal.