Kepa Arrizabalaga’s transfer to Arsenal is now all but official, with the Gunners reportedly activating the £5m release clause in the goalkeeper’s contract. Kepa had already agreed personal terms a few weeks ago. He will be joining as the backup to fellow Spain international David Raya but is expected to challenge for the starting job.
Kepa had himself a statistically pretty good season on loan at AFC Bournemouth, which made his release clause a relative bargain. He probably would’ve preferred to go somewhere where he’d be the starter by default, but he chose the challenge of the Arsenal job instead, which is commendable.
And so, we’re now just an official announcement away from closing the books on Kepa’s storied Chelsea career, one that’s seen him go from the world’s most expensive goalkeeper (still!), to a Champions League-winning squad player (twice), to a £5m backup at league’s perennial second place finishers. Legendary.
⚪️ Kepa to Arsenal, here we go! Deal done for the Spanish goalkeeper to join #AFC as new backup for David Raya.
Arsenal activate £5m clause from Chelsea and all documents are now sealed.
One more addition for Arteta after Martin Zubimendi. pic.twitter.com/56w04dmF8w
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 25, 2025