Real Madrid Transfer News: Kepa Arrizabalaga Explains Blancos Snub Amid Rumours

Kepa Arrizabalaga has explained why he decided to sign a new contract with Athletic Bilbao rather than agree to a deal with Real Madrid amid strong rumours in the January transfer window.

The Spain international was set to become a free agent in the summer, and over the course of the season, multiple reports emerged linking him with Los Blancos.

The speculation intensified towards the end of 2017, with suggestions a deal had been agreed, but he shocked everyone by putting pen to paper on a new contract in the Basque country instead.

Speaking to El Larguero (via AS), Kepa said:

"It was a time of much reflection and the decision was one that would have shaped the direction of my sporting career. In the end, following advice from my family and close friends, I opted to stay. I'm happy with the outcome and look forward to serving the club for the next eight years."

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The 23-year-old is a product of Athletic's vaunted academy, which has produced a ton of talent over the years. The club has a "cantera policy" of only fielding Basque players and is extremely reliant on their youth development.

Their biggest stars leave the team for bigger clubs later than most, with the likes of Fernando Llorente, Aymeric Laporte and Ander Herrera taking their time in recent years. It would appear Kepa will not be an exception.

Here's a look at some of his top highlights from last season:

The 2017-18 campaign has also been an excellent one for the youngster:

Real are expected to add a goalkeeper in the summer, seeking either an upgrade on Keylor Navas or competition for him. Thanks to his previous status as a pending free agent, Kepa could have been an excellent value signing and put less pressure on the club to start him immediately.

Navas has been a loyal servant for four seasons, but the Costa Rica international is 31 and starting to show his age. He also has a tendency to let in a few too many soft goals that are unacceptable at a top club.

Kepa could still end up in Madrid—even as early as this summer—but by agreeing to a new deal, the stopper ensured his current club will receive a significant transfer fee. That shouldn't come as a surprise as Athletic players often come through for their club.

He's more likely to stay in the Basque country for the foreseeable future, however, continuing his development before making a move.