Official: Kepa Arrizabalaga Joins Arsenal from Chelsea in $6.3M Deal

Arsenal have officially signed Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea in a deal worth $6.3 million (£5 million). The 30-year-old joins the Gunners on a three-year contract until 2028 and will provide experienced cover and competition for current No. 1 David Raya.

The move, confirmed on July 1, marks a smart and cost-effective addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad ahead of the 2025–26 season.

 
Kepa’s Career Comes Full Circle

Kepa arrives at Arsenal with a decorated CV that includes major trophies across Europe:

• Signed by Chelsea in 2018 for a world-record fee for a goalkeeper (then £80 million).
• Won the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup with Chelsea.
• Spent last season at Bournemouth, making 35 appearances and earning praise for his shot-stopping and distribution.

He also enjoyed a loan spell at Real Madrid, where he added a La Liga title to his name.

 
Arsenal's Goalkeeping Reshuffle

With Aaron Ramsdale expected to depart this summer, Arsenal needed a reliable deputy behind David Raya. Kepa’s signing offers:

• Experienced depth for both domestic and European campaigns.
• A steady and proven option who can step in without disrupting the team’s playing style.
• Leadership and mentorship for younger goalkeepers like Karl Hein.

Arteta has been vocal about the need for two top-level goalkeepers, and Kepa's arrival aligns perfectly with that strategy.

 
Squad Impact and Expectations

Kepa will wear the No. 13 shirt, while Raya retains the No. 1 role. Though signed primarily as a backup, Kepa has made it clear he’s ready to fight for a starting position.

He is expected to link up with the squad immediately for pre-season training and could feature in friendlies later this month.

This signing complements Arsenal’s ongoing transfer business, with moves for Christian Nørgaard and Martín Zubimendi also in the pipeline as Arteta looks to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.

 
What They Said

“It’s an honor to join such a historic club,” Kepa said. “I’ve played against Arsenal many times and always respected how they play. Now I’m here to give my best, support the team, and be ready whenever I’m needed.”
 

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