Arsenal Football Club have officially signed Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea, activating the £5 million release clause in his contract. The 30-year-old has agreed to a two‑year deal (with varying reports stating a three‑year contract up to 2028) and will join as competition and experienced backup to current first-choice keeper David Raya.
Born in Ondarroa, Spain, Kepa developed through Athletic Bilbao’s academy before his record-breaking move to Chelsea in 2018, where he became the world’s most expensive goalkeeper at approximately £71–72 million. During his seven seasons at Stamford Bridge, he played just over 160 games and contributed to several major honours, including the Europa League (2019), Champions League (2021), UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup.
After falling out of Chelsea’s starting lineup, Kepa revitalised his form with loan spells at Real Madrid—where he secured a La Liga and Champions League double—and Bournemouth, where he made 35 appearances, produced numerous key saves, and recorded eight clean sheets. His impressive displays at Bournemouth are widely credited as the catalyst for Arsenal’s interest.
Upon completion of the signing, Kepa expressed his excitement:
“I’m really, really happy to be here, really excited and looking forward to what is coming. The ambition shown at this club… I think we are so close to winning, and hopefully, together, we can achieve it.”
Arsenal’s head coach, Mikel Arteta, welcomed the new signing, praising Kepa's extensive experience and competitive spirit:
“He brings a wealth of experience… he has a real hunger to win. Kepa works hard and will elevate our levels. I know he will fit in perfectly.”
Key Details:
Transfer fee: £5 million (release clause)
Contract: Two- to three-year term, reportedly ending in 2027 or 2028
Squad role: Will battle with David Raya for the starting position, wearing the no. 13 jersey
marks Arsenal’s first signing of the summer window, signaling the beginning of further reinforcement to their squad, including midfield options MartÃn Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard, and additional attacking targets.
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