Arsenal have signed Kepa Arrizabalaga, the world’s most expensive goalkeeper, from Chelsea on a three-year deal. However, this is not the first time he has been sold for the highest price. Kepa joined Chelsea from boyhood club Athletic Bilbao in 2018 for a record £71 million. That record still stands. Arsenal bought Kepa for £500,000 (Tk 84 crore).
According to ESPN, the 30-year-old goalkeeper was originally considered by coach Mikel Arteta as a back-up to Arsenal’s main keeper David Reyes. Kepa spent the previous two seasons on loan at Chelsea, Real Madrid and Bournemouth. His move was cut short by his permanent deal with the Gunners. Arsenal were keen to sign Juan Garcia from Espanyol, but La Liga champions Barcelona were keen to sign the 24-year-old.
Reacting to Kepa’s arrival, Arsenal coach Arteta said: “I’m really happy to see Kepa join our squad. We’ve seen him against us a few times in recent seasons, we know him. He’s already gaining a lot of experience, which will benefit his teammates. He has a lot of hunger to win. Kepa is a hard worker and will raise the level of our team. I’m really excited about his future with us.”
Kepa joined Chelsea on a seven-year contract, but played for five seasons. During that time, Kepa played a total of 163 matches. He won the Europa League in 2019, the Champions League in 2021, and the Club World Cup in 2022. Then he won the Champions League and La Liga with Real Madrid in 2023. In addition, he played on loan for Bournemouth last season.
Kepa kept nine clean sheets in 35 games for Bournemouth last season. The club is also considered the sixth best defensive team in the English Premier League in the 2024-25 season. Meanwhile, Kepa will wear the number 13 jersey at Arsenal. The aim will be to become a good alternative to David Rayo.
FAQ
How much did Arsenal pay for him?
The transfer fee is reported to be around [insert exact amount if known, e.g., £90 million], breaking the previous record for a goalkeeper.
Whose record did this signing break?
This deal broke the previous record held by Kepa Arrizabalaga, who was signed by Chelsea for around £71 million in 2018.
Why did Arsenal spend so much on a goalkeeper?
Arsenal wanted to strengthen their defense with a top-quality goalkeeper who can perform at the highest level and support their title ambitions.
Will he replace Arsenal’s current number one?
Yes, he is expected to take over the first-choice role from Aaron Ramsdale/David Raya depending on who was the starter last season.
