Arsenal have completed the signing of Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for a reported fee of £5 million, marking the end of the 30-year-old’s eventful six-year stint at Stamford Bridge. Kepa has signed a three-year contract with the Gunners and is expected to compete for the number one shirt alongside fellow Spaniard David Raya.
The deal brings a new chapter for Kepa, who arrives at the Emirates Stadium after a season-long loan at Bournemouth, where he featured in 35 matches across all competitions. He now joins Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, a team pushing for Premier League and European glory after consecutive top-four finishes.
In his first interview as an Arsenal player, Kepa expressed excitement about his new challenge. “I’m really, really happy to be here, really excited and looking forward to what is coming,” he said. “The ambition that is shown in this club, when I talk with Mikel and Inaki [Cana, Arsenal’s goalkeeping coach], how much they show me their desire to win… I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it.”
Kepa’s journey to North London has been shaped by both triumphs and challenges. Still the most expensive goalkeeper in football history, he was signed by Chelsea in 2018 for £71 million from Athletic Bilbao after Thibaut Courtois forced a move to Real Madrid and Chelsea failed to secure Alisson Becker, who joined Liverpool instead. The Blues were left with few alternatives and paid Kepa’s full release clause to get the deal over the line.
Despite a promising start, Kepa’s form at Chelsea proved inconsistent, leading to questions over the enormous fee and his suitability for the top level. His struggles were most visible during the 2019 Carabao Cup final, when he infamously refused to be substituted in extra time, creating headlines worldwide.
However, Kepa gradually restored his reputation through loan spells, first at Real Madrid—where he won La Liga and the Champions League during the 2023–24 season—and then at Bournemouth, where he became a reliable presence between the posts. His time at Chelsea also included appearances in Champions League, Europa League, and Club World Cup-winning squads, highlighting his experience on the biggest stages.
For Arsenal, the move adds depth and competition in goal. With Aaron Ramsdale’s future uncertain and David Raya having impressed since joining from Brentford, Kepa’s arrival gives Arteta more options, especially in a season where the Gunners will again juggle domestic and European commitments.
Kepa’s signing also brings clarity to Arsenal’s goalkeeping setup. Brazilian goalkeeper Neto, who was on loan from Bournemouth last season, has returned to his parent club after the Gunners opted not to make the deal permanent. Kepa, with over 300 career appearances and a wealth of experience in high-pressure situations, is seen as a safer long-term option.
His ability to play out from the back and comfort under pressure aligns well with Arteta’s tactical philosophy. Arsenal’s coaching staff, particularly Inaki Cana, played a significant role in convincing Kepa to join, with both parties confident that he can rejuvenate his career in North London.
As the Gunners continue to reinforce their squad, Kepa’s arrival is part of a wider summer reshuffle. Reports suggest Arsenal are also closing in on Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi, with a £51 million deal nearing completion following a successful medical.
For Kepa, the move represents both a fresh start and an opportunity to reclaim his place among Spain’s elite goalkeepers ahead of Euro 2028. For Arsenal, it’s a calculated gamble on a proven talent looking to write a new chapter at one of England’s most ambitious clubs.
