Arsenal v Chelsea
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Arsenal have identified Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga as a leading target to reinforce their goalkeeping department ahead of the 2025/26 season, according to a report by James McNicholas forThe Athletic.
The Gunners are said to be in talks with their London rivals over a potential deal for the 30-year-old Spanish international, who is being considered as a high-quality deputy to current No. 1, David Raya. Manager Mikel Arteta is keen to add depth and competition in goal, especially following the departure of backup keeper Neto after his loan spell.
McNicholas reports that Arsenal have made contact with Chelsea, with discussions centred around a possible transfer fee in the region of £5 million. Kepa, who joined Chelsea in 2018 for a then-world-record £71.6 million fee for a goalkeeper, has one year remaining on his current contract but is reportedly open to the move and willing to reduce his wages to make it happen.
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The Spanish shot-stopper spent the 2024–25 season on loan at Bournemouth, where he regained some of his best form, delivering a string of strong performances and reminding observers of his shot-stopping credentials. Despite falling down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge, Kepa’s experience in both the Premier League and Champions League has made him a compelling option for Arsenal.
Kepa Arrizabalaga
Kepa Arrizabalaga (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal’s interest in Kepa comes after a move for Espanyol’s Joan Garcia cooled in recent weeks. McNicholas notes that the Gunners are determined to secure an experienced and reliable option behind Raya, who established himself as first-choice last season following his permanent move from Brentford last summer.
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The prospect of joining a title-challenging side like Arsenal is believed to appeal to Kepa, who is eager to stay in the Premier League and compete for silverware. His potential arrival would further underline Arteta’s focus on ensuring squad depth across all positions as Arsenal look to build on a strong 2024–25 campaign.
However, the reported interest has divided opinion among supporters. While some welcome the prospect of adding proven top-flight experience to the squad, others have expressed concerns over Kepa’s inconsistency during his Chelsea tenure.
Regardless, Arsenal appear determined to finalise a deal that would provide them with a dependable second-choice goalkeeper, a crucial step as they prepare for a busy season that includes Champions League football and a renewed Premier League title push.
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