Arsenal have officially completed the signing of Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea after activating his £5 million release clause, securing the 30-year-old on a three-year contract until 2028.
Kepa arrives as the backup to established No. 1 David Raya and will don the number 13 jersey at Emirates Stadium—continuing a long-standing goalkeeper tradition at the club. The shirt has previously been worn by the likes of Jens Lehmann, Wojciech Szczęsny, and David Ospina.
During his time at Chelsea, Kepa amassed 163 appearances and kept 59 clean sheets, contributing to major trophies including the Champions League (2021), Europa League (2019), UEFA Super Cup (2021), and Club World Cup (2021). He most recently spent the 2024–25 season on loan at Bournemouth, where he established himself as a key player.
Upon confirmation of the transfer, Kepa shared his excitement:
“I’m really, really happy to be here … The ambition shown in this club … I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it.”
Arsenal’s Sporting Director Andrea Berta added that Kepa brings a winning mentality and invaluable experience:
“He is a player with great experience… we cannot wait for him to join the group and help the club win.”
Manager Mikel Arteta echoed those sentiments, highlighting Kepa’s experience and “hunger to win,” expressing belief that the keeper would strengthen the squad and integrate seamlessly.
The transfer brings an end to Kepa’s seven-year association with Chelsea. Taking to social media, he thanked the club and its supporters for an unforgettable chapter, citing shared memories and significant successes.
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