Arsenal have completed the signing of Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for a reported fee of £5 million, marking their first major acquisition of the summer transfer window.
The 30-year-old remains the world’s most expensive goalkeeper, having joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao in 2018 for £71 million. Despite the record fee, Kepa struggled to maintain a consistent first-team role at Stamford Bridge and spent recent seasons on loan at Real Madrid and Bournemouth.
The Gunners reportedly activated a £5 million buyout clause inserted into Kepa’s Chelsea contract last year.
“I think we are so close to winning, and hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it,” Kepa said in his first interview as an Arsenal player.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta welcomed the arrival, praising Kepa’s experience and character. “We are really happy to have Kepa join us,” Arteta said. “He brings leadership, hunger, and a strong work ethic. He knows some of the squad already and will integrate quickly.”
Under Arteta, Arsenal have finished as Premier League runners-up for three consecutive seasons and are targeting silverware this campaign. Kepa is expected to provide strong competition for current first-choice goalkeeper David Raya.
Arsenal are also close to sealing a deal for Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, while talks continue for Brentford captain Christian Norgaard, signaling a busy transfer window at the Emirates Stadium.