Arsenal Nears Deal for Chelsea Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga

LONDON, England — Arsenal Football Club is close to finalizing a deal for Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, according to multiple reports on June 7, 2025. The Gunners are pursuing Kepa as they seek a backup for their first-choice goalkeeper, David Raya.

Arsenal shifted their focus to Kepa after missing out on Espanyol‘s Joan García, who appears set to join Barcelona instead. Reports indicate that Kepa’s release clause of just £5 million made him an attractive option.

Kepa, who has been with Chelsea since 2018, initially signed for a record fee of £71.6 million from Athletic Club. Since then, he has made 163 appearances for the club, winning four major honors. However, he struggled to maintain his starting position at Chelsea, resulting in a loan to Real Madrid in the 2023-24 season and then a season as Bournemouth‘s first-choice keeper.

During his time at Bournemouth, Kepa kept nine clean sheets in 35 matches as the team posted the joint sixth-best defensive record in the Premier League. Arsenal’s staff, long-time admirers of Kepa, believe he has the professionalism and attitude to provide solid support to Raya.

Despite competition for playing time, Kepa is reportedly ready to fight for his place at Arsenal. He has not played for Chelsea since the 2022-23 season and is eager for a fresh start in north London.

As Arsenal gears up for the new season, the club continues to evaluate its options. The move for Kepa marks the first signing of the summer as Arsenal aims to bolster its squad after a busy offseason, including the exit of several players.