Kepa Arrizabalaga Joins Arsenal from Chelsea in £5m Transfer

Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has officially left Chelsea to join Arsenal in a deal worth £5 million. The move marks the start of a new chapter for Kepa and brings experienced competition to Arsenal’s goalkeeping ranks.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Arsenal triggered the £5 million release clause in Kepa Arrizabalaga’s Chelsea contract, finalizing the deal on July 1, 2025. After spending last season on loan at AFC Bournemouth, where he made 35 appearances and kept nine clean sheets, Kepa arrives at the Emirates as a seasoned Premier League goalkeeper. His signing follows the return of Neto to Bournemouth after his loan spell with Arsenal, allowing Kepa to slot in as a competitor and backup for Arsenal’s current first-choice keeper, David Raya. Kepa joined Chelsea in 2018 for a world-record fee for a goalkeeper and has achieved multiple trophies at Stamford Bridge, including the Champions League, Europa League, and Club World Cup.

According to a previous report, Kepa Arrizabalaga was on loan at Bournemouth last season.

KEPA’S CAREER SO FAR AND TEAM IMPACT

Kepa’s time at Chelsea saw moments of both triumph and challenge. He made history as the world’s most expensive goalkeeper but was later loaned out as his place in the team became uncertain. Last season at Bournemouth, he was a key part of a defense that finished with the sixth-best record in the Premier League. Arsenal, who finished last season in 2nd place in the Premier League, are looking to solidify their squad for a new title challenge. Kepa’s arrival gives manager Mikel Arteta valuable depth and experience in a position that has seen changes over the past two seasons.

Arsenal finished second in the Premier League last season according to a report.

LOOKING AHEAD TO THE NEW SEASON

Arsenal’s early business in the transfer market signals their intent to strengthen ahead of a demanding 2025/26 campaign. With Champions League football on the horizon, keeping a reliable backup for David Raya is crucial. Arsenal’s opening fixture is against Manchester United, who finished outside of European spots and as such will put all of their focus in the Premier League. With Kepa now competing for minutes and eager to prove himself at the Emirates, his arrival could help push standards higher in training and matches. Supporters hope Kepa’s experience will make a positive impact as the season gets underway.

Chelsea, who finished fourth in the Premier League last season, secured a Champions League spot according to previous reports.