Arsenal have secured the signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for £5 million, with the Spanish shot-stopper set to become the new backup to David Raya. The Gunners activated a release clause in Kepa’s contract with Chelsea, and all signing documents have now been sealed.
The move marks Mikel Arteta’s second summer acquisition following the arrival of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, reinforcing Arsenal’s squad depth ahead of the new season.
Kepa, 29, joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao in 2018 for a then-world-record £71 million (€80 million), making 163 appearances for the Blues with 59 clean sheets. Last season, he spent a loan spell at Bournemouth, where he featured in 24 Premier League matches.His switch to Arsenal comes as the Gunners look to strengthen their goalkeeping options, with Raya currently first-choice after joining on loan from Brentford last season.
The £5 million deal represents a significant discount from Kepa’s initial transfer fee, but Arsenal have capitalized on the contractual clause to secure a seasoned top-flight goalkeeper. Kepa’s arrival is expected to bring competition to the squad and provide Arteta with tactical flexibility in cup competitions and rotational fixtures.
