AFCON 2025
Arsenal have completed the signing of Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea in a deal reportedly worth £5 million.
The 30-year-old has agreed a two-year contract with the Gunners and will wear the number 13 shirt. Kepa is expected to provide experienced cover for David Raya, who remains Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper.
The move marks the end of Kepa’s time at Chelsea, where he arrived in 2018 for a world-record fee for a goalkeeper of around £71 million.
Despite early promise, his time at Stamford Bridge was marked by inconsistency, though he did play key roles in Chelsea’s Europa League win in 2019 and their Champions League triumph in 2021. He also lifted the Super Cup and Club World Cup with the Blues.
In recent seasons, Kepa was loaned to Real Madrid and Bournemouth. During the 2024–25 season at Bournemouth, he made 31 Premier League appearances and produced several standout performances, reviving his reputation.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the signing, describing Kepa as a player with immense experience and the hunger to win more trophies.
Arteta noted that the goalkeeper’s personality and professionalism would benefit the entire squad. Sporting Director Andrea Berta also highlighted Kepa’s leadership qualities and the calm he brings to the backline.
Kepa expressed his excitement about joining Arsenal, citing the club’s ambition and progress in recent seasons. He said he is eager to contribute to their success and compete for more silverware. The deal is viewed as a strategic move to deepen Arsenal’s goalkeeping options as they prepare for a busy season ahead.
