Arsenal are set to sign Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for £5 million.
The 30-year-old spent last season on loan at AFC Bournemouth, keeping eight clean sheets for Andoni Iraola's side as a starter.
The Gunners have been looking for a backup goalkeeper since Aaron Ramsdale moved to Southampton in August 2024.
Neto was brought in to fill the void as a late-notice replacement, but was cup-tied in the Carabao Cup, having played for Bournemouth against West Ham.
After long-term target Joan Garcia opted to stay in LaLiga, moving to champions Barcelona, Arsenal switched their focus to Kepa.
A clause in the Spaniard's contract signed at the start of last season means he is available for only £5 million, given Chelsea's vast depth in the goalkeeping department with Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, Djordje Petrovic and Mike Penders.
The Blues have loaned Kepa out for two consecutive seasons, having had a stint at Real Madrid in 2023/24 before joining Bournemouth.
(Credit: Robin Jones/ Getty Images)
(Credit: Robin Jones/ Getty Images)
Kepa to fight for number one
It is understood that the 30-year-old is content with fighting for the starting spot, which David Raya has confidently made his after competing with Ramsdale.
However, Mikel Arteta has inadvertently switched between goalkeepers before in his managerial career, should he feel that the former Athletic Bilbao shot-stopper is a better fit for the Gunners.
Arsenal are also currently looking at a reinforcement in the central midfield role, with the potential of Thomas Partey becoming a free agent at the end of the month looking likely.
While Martin Zubimendi's announcement is all but official, Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard has been discussed, as revealed first by The Mirror on Friday.
The 31-year-old would bring Premier League experience at a relatively affordable fee, providing adept support for Zubimendi to adapt to the demands of English football.