Arsenal are reportedly considering a surprise move for Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who is available for a cut-price fee of just £5 million due to a release clause in his contract. The 30-year-old Spaniard, once the world’s most expensive goalkeeper, is now seen as a potential backup option to David Raya at the Emirates.
Kepa joined Chelsea in 2018 for a record £72 million but struggled to meet expectations, leading to loan spells at Real Madrid and Bournemouth. During the 2024–25 season with Bournemouth, he made 31 Premier League appearances, keeping eight clean sheets and showing glimpses of the form that made him a standout talent during his time in La Liga.
With Chelsea deeming him surplus to requirements, Arsenal see an opportunity to bolster their goalkeeping options without significant expenditure. The Gunners had previously explored other names for the backup role, but Kepa’s affordability and Premier League experience make him an attractive target.
Arsenal’s current first-choice goalkeeper, David Raya, has secured consecutive Premier League Golden Glove awards, establishing himself as a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad. However, with the departure of previous backup options and the need for experienced cover, Kepa’s potential arrival could provide valuable depth for domestic and European competition.
While Arsenal’s primary focus this summer remains on strengthening their attacking options—particularly in the striker and left-wing positions—the opportunity to sign a seasoned goalkeeper like Kepa for a nominal fee is being taken seriously by the recruitment team led by Andrea Berta.
Kepa’s contract with Chelsea runs until 2026, but the presence of a £5 million release clause makes a transfer not only feasible but also financially smart for a club looking to invest the bulk of its budget elsewhere. Should Arsenal proceed with the move, it would represent a significant reduction from the record fee Chelsea paid in 2018, highlighting the changing dynamics of player valuations and club strategies.
As the summer transfer window unfolds, Arsenal’s interest in Kepa Arrizabalaga underscores their intent to reinforce key areas of the squad efficiently—balancing ambition with financial discipline. The goalkeeper’s experience, availability, and Premier League familiarity offer Arsenal a low-risk, high-reward option as they prepare for another demanding campaign across multiple competitions.
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