Kepa admits 'nothing's been negotiated' despite his wish to stay at Real Madrid

Kepa Arrizabalaga is eyeing a permanent stay at Real Madrid after enjoying a strong start to life at the Bernabeu.

The Chelsea stopper moved to the Spanish giants on a season-long loan in August and has since been installed as Carlo Ancelotti's first-choice goalkeeper.

Arrizabalaga has started all eight La Liga games for Madrid, and their two Champions League clashes so far this campaign.

The 29-year-old is now already talking up a more permanent move to the Spanish capital, after revealing in a press conference ahead of Madrid's midweek trip to Sporting Braga, that he wants to stay at the club.

'I'd say it has been a very positive two months.' The Spanish goalie said.

'We've started the season well and it's a long season, but we're on the right path. So, I'd say it has been a positive start, but I know any grade for my performances this season will be given at the end of the campaign.

'I said it then and I still hope to stay. But, we haven't spoken about that or negotiated anything yet. It's only October and we're focused on the busy schedule.'

Arrizabalaga has also an eye on next summer's European Championships and looking to oust Unai Simon as the current Spanish number one. However, he believes ultimately it's a decision for national team boss Luis de la Fuente.

Adding: 'I always want to play for my club and for the national team. That’s what I work for. This is a question for the national team coach. I’m prepared and ready and obviously I’d like to play.'

The Spanish keeper signed for Chelsea in 2018, and remains the world's most expensive goalkeeper after the £72m move.

He has made 163 appearances for the Blues in a roller-coaster of a spell at Stamford Bridge, under a succession of managers who differed on their preference as the club's first-choice goalie.

In his place Chelsea recruited Robert Sanchez from Brighton in the summer, but he has struggled in the Stamford Bridge goal, and was at fault for Declan Rice's goal in the 2-2 draw with Arsenal at the weekend.

The concern over Sanchez's start in west London has since Chelsea been linked with a shock January move for frustrated Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey.