Report: Arsenal eye shock Kepa Arrizabalaga swoop from Chelsea

The 30-year-old Spaniard, who spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Bournemouth, is not part of Chelsea's plans under head coach Enzo Maresca, prompting the Gunners to consider him as a potential backup for their first-choice goalkeeper, David Raya.

Kepa, who joined Chelsea in 2018 for a world-record 71.6 million pounds, impressed during his loan spell at Bournemouth, keeping eight clean sheets in 31 Premier League appearances.

Despite this, Bournemouth have explored other options after failing to secure a permanent deal, as reported by journalist Luca Bendoni on X: "Kepa Arrizabalaga will be available on the market for a five million pound release clause. Bournemouth made an attempt to keep him permanently, but parties are currently looking for other options."

Arsenal's interest comes as they seek a reliable deputy for Raya, having parted ways with Aaron Ramsdale last summer and relied on Bournemouth loanee Neto, who made just two appearances in the 2024/25 season. The Gunners had been tracking Espanyol's promising 23-year-old goalkeeper Joan Garcia, but with Barcelona reportedly closing in on the young Spaniard, Arsenal have turned their attention to Kepa.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X: "Arsenal are informed on a five million pound release clause for Kepa as an option to be David Raya's backup. Initial talks took place to be informed on deal conditions."

Chelsea, meanwhile, are reshaping their goalkeeping ranks, with Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen failing to fully convince, and Djordje Petrovic returning from a loan at Strasbourg. The Blues have their eyes on AC Milan's Mike Maignan as a long-term solution, leaving Kepa surplus to requirements.

Maresca has made it clear he prioritizes goalkeepers comfortable with ball-playing duties, a role Kepa has struggled to consistently fulfill during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, has a history of successfully integrating former Chelsea players, with Kai Havertz and Jorginho proving their worth despite initial skepticism from fans.

Kepa could follow in their footsteps, offering Premier League experience and a low-risk signing at a cut-price fee. His time at Bournemouth showcased his shot-stopping ability and composure, qualities that could make him a valuable addition to Arsenal's squad.

While some Arsenal supporters might raise eyebrows at the prospect of another Chelsea cast-off, Kepa's affordability and proven track record in England's top flight make this a move worth considering.

For five million pounds, Arsenal could secure a seasoned goalkeeper who knows the Premier League and has handled high-pressure situations, from cup finals to Champions League nights. If the Gunners pull off this deal, it could prove to be a shrewd piece of business in a transfer window where every penny counts.