According to various reports, Arsenal is set to finalize the signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea in the upcoming days.
The 30-year-old goalkeeper, who holds the record for the highest transfer fee for a goalkeeper at €80 million since his move from Athletic Bilbao in 2018, has spent the last two seasons on loan at Real Madrid and Bournemouth. With no future at Stamford Bridge, he has decided to join Arsenal as a backup for David Raya. Chelsea’s current contract with him includes a £5 million release clause, which the Gunners will trigger to secure the transfer.
Last season, Kepa played 35 matches for Bournemouth, conceding 43 goals and achieving nine clean sheets. He has represented Spain 13 times, but his last appearance for the national team came over two years ago during a surprising defeat to Scotland in Euro 2024 qualifying.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as it highlights Arsenal’s strategic moves to bolster their squad for the upcoming season. Kepa’s addition could provide much-needed depth in goal, potentially influencing the dynamics of the Premier League and Spain’s national team selection going forward.