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Arsenal Complete Permanent Signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea

Premier League giants Arsenal FC have bolstered their goalkeeping department with the signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea on a permanent deal, bringing an end to the Spanish international’s eventful spell at Stamford Bridge.
The North London club officially confirmed the acquisition via its website on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, stating that Kepa would join the squad ahead of the new season.
The 29-year-old shot-stopper arrives following consecutive loan spells at Real Madrid and AFC Bournemouth, where he regained form and consistency.
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Kepa, speaking after completing his move, expressed excitement over the new chapter of his career and revealed the influence of Arsenal’s project under manager Mikel Arteta and goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana.
“I am really, really happy to be here, really excited, and looking forward to what is coming. The ambition that is shown in this club, when I talk with Mikel Arteta and Inaki Cana, how much they show me their desire to win… I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it.”
His signing is expected to intensify competition in Arsenal’s goalkeeping ranks, which already includes David Raya, who joined permanently from Brentford earlier this year.
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Kepa made headlines in August 2018 when he became the most expensive goalkeeper in football history, completing a record-breaking move from Athletic Bilbao to Chelsea for £71.6 million.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, he was part of title-winning squads that lifted the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
In the 2023/24 season, Kepa returned to Spain on loan with Real Madrid, featuring in key matches as the club secured both the Champions League and Spanish Super Cup titles.
He spent the 2024/25 season with Bournemouth, impressing with solid performances that helped him regain attention from top clubs.
With Arsenal eager to push further in domestic and European competitions, Kepa’s arrival is seen as a strategic move to inject experience, depth, and high-level pedigree into the squad.
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His familiarity with top-flight football across Europe could prove crucial in the Gunners’ ongoing quest for silverware under Arteta’s leadership.
As pre-season preparations begin, fans will be eager to see how the Spanish goalkeeper fits into Arsenal’s plans in the coming campaign.