Kepa Arrizabalaga Seals Move to Arsenal as Backup Goalkeeper

Arsenal have signed Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for £5 million. Kepa will be the new backup to David Raya, adding depth to the squad ahead of the Premier League season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Arsenal activated a £5 million release clause in Kepa‘s Chelsea contract, finalizing the deal on Wednesday. Kepa was on loan at Bournemouth last season and performed well. He will join Arsenal’s first team at London Colney this week. Kepa is Arsenal’s second summer signing after Martin Zubimendi, who joined from Real Sociedad in early June.

According to a previous report we published, Arsenal will pay around £55 million for Martin Zubimendi.

Arsenal needed a backup goalkeeper after Neto’s loan ended. Kepa’s Premier League experience makes him a good fit to compete with David Raya for the number one spot.

WHY THIS DEAL MATTERS

Kepa, 30, has experience in the top flight, having played for Chelsea and Bournemouth. His arrival strengthens Arsenal’s goalkeeping options, ensuring stability at a key position. Last season, Arsenal finished second in the Premier League, just two points behind champions Manchester City. They had the best defensive record in the league but needed to add depth for multiple competitions, including the Champions League and domestic cups.

Kepa’s presence also reunites him with several Spanish players at Arsenal, helping him settle in quickly.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

With Kepa’s transfer completed and Zubimendi set to be announced soon, Arsenal will focus on pre-season preparations. Arsenal will aim to close the gap to their rivals in the Premier League, while Chelsea and Liverpool look to fight for another PL title. The signings of Kepa and Zubimendi show Arsenal’s intent to strengthen key areas as they aim for another successful season in English football.