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Former Arsenal striker Charlie Nicholas has backed the club’s impending £5 million signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, calling it one of the smartest moves of the transfer window.
The 30-year-old Spanish shot-stopper, who spent last season on loan at Bournemouth, is set to leave Chelsea permanently after being informed by new manager Enzo Maresca that he has no future at Stamford Bridge. Arsenal have moved quickly to bring in an experienced second-choice goalkeeper to provide competition for current No.1 David Raya, following the departure of Neto back to Bournemouth.
Speaking to Sky Bet, Nicholas expressed his surprise and approval of the deal, highlighting Kepa’s experience and potential to push Raya for a starting place.
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“Kepa joining Arsenal is an immediate challenge to David Raya,” said Nicholas. “He might not be better than Raya, but if Raya gets injured – and he takes a lot of risks – then we have a guy who is experienced at playing at the top level. And it’s a bargain for £5 million.
Kepa Arrizabalaga
Kepa Arrizabalaga is expected to compete his transfer to Arsenal in the coming days (Image credit: Getty Images)
“There have been a lot of past Arsenal signings from Chelsea that haven’t worked out, but this one feels different. Kepa won’t be happy to just sit on the bench. He’ll push Raya and offer real competition.”
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Nicholas believes that the deal could represent excellent value and potentially become one of the most cost-effective transfers of the summer.
“I didn’t see this deal coming, but I’m very pleased with it – it’s a drop in the ocean in terms of money, and it could turn out to be the best value signing of the summer,” he added.
Mikel Arteta’s decision to bring in a proven, top-level goalkeeper suggests a preference for experience and immediate depth as Arsenal prepare for another title push and Champions League campaign.
The Gunners are expected to confirm Kepa’s signing in the coming days as part of a wider summer rebuild that also includes deals for Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard.
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