Real Madrid weighing up a new contract offer for impressive 25-year-old star
There was a time when Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was close to leaving the team after knowing that a certain Kepa Arrizabalaga would be preferred despite being on loan from Chelsea.
There was a time when Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was close to leaving the team after knowing that a certain Kepa Arrizabalaga would be preferred despite being on loan from Chelsea.
Over the past few months, however, the Ukrainian has upped the ante to the extent that he now occupies the starting role, as a result of which he is more inclined towards staying than leaving.
In fact, if a report from AS is to be believed, Real Madrid are very happy with Lunin’s performance against RB Leipzig in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 and his overall attitude this season so much so that they do not rule out offering him a new contract.
In Leipzig, Lunin proved that he deserved to be the first-choice goalkeeper for Real Madrid, especially in the Champions League knockout round, which was a new experience for him.
The 25-year-old showed he can not only perform well but also save the team when the pressure is on during important matches as his nine saves helped Madrid win 1-0 against the German team.
After the match, Ancelotti praised the keeper, saying it was his best game and now the club is happy because they don’t have a goalkeeper problem.
Kepa, who is on loan, is not doing well, and Lunin’s value has gone up so much that Real Madrid are even thinking about extending his contract.
Lunin’s contract with Real Madrid runs until 2025. He just turned 25, and his market value could increase if he plays in the UEFA Euro in Germany.
The Ukrainian, who previously faced challenges for a starting position, now wants to continue playing as he aims to be a real competition for Thibaut Courtois when the Belgian returns.
Real Madrid are said to be happy about this, as they would not have to spend on a substitute goalkeeper if Lunin stays. As of today, their confidence in the stopper has grown, providing security to the club for this and the next season.
This assurance is crucial, especially if Courtois faces challenges recovering from his ACL. The expected return of Courtois is in March, and by then, Lunin may have firmly established himself in the team.