Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on a three-year contract, seven years after he joined Chelsea.
The 30-year-old arrives from Stamford Bridge with extensive Premier League and European experience and will wear the No. 13 shirt at the Emirates Stadium. The deal includes a release clause, though its details remain undisclosed.
Kepa spent the 2024–25 season on loan at Bournemouth, where he featured in 35 matches and kept nine clean sheets. His performances were instrumental in helping the Cherries finish with the sixth-best defensive record in the Premier League – a key factor in Arsenal’s decision to bring him in.
He replaces Neto, who returns to Bournemouth after a one-year loan in north London.
“I’m really, really happy to be here,” Kepa said after completing the move. “The ambition this club shows – especially in my conversations with Mikel [Arteta] and Inaki [Cana] – made it clear we’re aiming to win. I believe we’re very close, and I want to be part of that.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the signing, highlighting Kepa’s leadership qualities and familiarity with the demands of English football.
“We’re very pleased to bring Kepa to Arsenal,” Arteta said. “He’s a player we know well and have faced many times. His experience, professionalism, and hunger to succeed will be valuable for our squad. He’s already familiar with some of our players, so I’m confident he’ll settle quickly.”
Kepa arrived at Chelsea from Athletic Club in 2018 for 80 million euros, becoming the most expensive goalkeeper in history at the time. Despite ups and downs in form, he departs having won the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.
The Spaniard posted a farewell message to Chelsea fans on Instagram following his departure:
“Thank you, Chelsea. After seven unforgettable years, the time has come to close a very special chapter in my life. Chelsea was my home, my family, and the place where I grew both as a footballer and as a person.”
Kepa becomes Arsenal’s latest addition as they continue to bolster their squad ahead of the 2025–26 season, aiming to build on their domestic and European ambitions.
